Greg Gatwood and Judy Gittlesohn recently found a mysterious sculpture while landscaping in their Russian Hill backyard. The discovery in San Francisco prompted the couple to investigate the origins of the artwork, as they suspect it may be a lost piece by famous Art Deco artist Ralph Stackpole.
Ralph Stackpole holds a significant place in local art history. His work includes the notable statue outside the old San Francisco Stock Exchange and several murals inside Coit Tower. Because the couple lives near the former site of the San Francisco Art Institute where Stackpole once taught, they are working to determine if the sculpture was intentionally hidden or discarded years ago.
Gittlesohn has dedicated time to studying the piece and comparing it to known works by the artist. The couple is now seeking a professional verification process to confirm the identity of the sculptor. They have reached out to various entities, including university experts, to establish a connection to Stackpole. As of now, the search for answers continues regarding how the sculpture ended up beneath their soil.
If the piece is confirmed as a genuine work by the artist, it could represent a significant find for the local art community. Gatwood and Gittlesohn are left with the task of preserving the object while they wait for expert analysis to provide clarity on its history and true value.