Jack Kerouac - Jun 24, 2020 | University Archives In Ct
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Jack Kerouac

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Jack Kerouac: Jack Kerouac's Crucifix with Two Medallions, With Estate Provenance Jack Kerouac's Crucifix with Two Medallions. Crucifix 2.25" in length, threaded through a safety pin with two attached religious med
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Jack Kerouac
Jack Kerouac
Item Details
Description
Jack Kerouac's Large Crucifix, Nearly 9" Tall, One of his Favorites!

A large wall-mounted crucifix personally owned by Jack Kerouac (1922-1969), the famous American writer who brought us "On The Road" (1957), and said to be one of his favorite objects of devotion. Provenance: The piece will be accompanied by an estate certification signed by John Shen-Sampas, executor of the Kerouac Estate by descent. John Shen-Sampas is the son of John Sampas, who was the brother-in-law of Jack Kerouac, and the brother of Stella Kerouac, Jack's wife.

The bronze crucifix with deep bas relief shows Christ in torment at center, his outstretched arms extending along the crossbar. "INRI" (or an ironic reference to Christ as King of the Jews) appears at top. In terms of iconography, this crucifixion scene is very traditional, yet the form of the crucifix is very unusual. The cross has a sort of elongated croix pattée form; this is characterized by its convex terminals. Scattered verdigris only enhances its warm, rich patina. Measures 5" x 8.75" x .625" overall.

Jack Kerouac was a devoted Roman Catholic. His intense faith was instilled in him at an early age by his beloved French-Canadian mother, Gabrielle-Ange Lévesque (1895-1973). Kerouac's Catholicism heavily influenced his personal life, world view, and literary work. While it is true that as an adult Kerouac experimented with alternative religions, including Buddhism, Taoism, and Hinduism, he never abandoned "the true faith". Photographs from the interior of Kerouac's last home at 5169 10th Avenue North, St. Petersburg, Florida show numerous religious icons like this crucifix scattered around the rooms and displayed on pieces of furniture.

A pocket crucifix owned by Jack Kerouac of very similar design measuring 1.25" x 1.75" (about four times smaller than this one) sold in our May 6, 2020 Jack Kerouac Estate Part III sale for a hammer price of $2,400.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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Jack Kerouac

Estimate $200 - $300
See Sold Price
Starting Price $70
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Item located in Westport, CT, us
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University Archives

University Archives

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Wilton, CT, United States2,866 Followers
Auction Curated By
John Reznikoff
President
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