Former Great Island Owners Gift Statues Worth $425K To Darien

DARIEN, CT — Darien is now the official owner of Great Island, and soon will be the new owner of two valuable statues that are associated with the property.

The Darien Board of Selectmen on Monday night unanimously voted to accept the gift of two garden marble statues valued at approximately $425,000 from the Steinkraus family, who previously owned Great Island.

One statue, which is named "Platonic Love," and dates back to 1936, was created by sculptor John Gregory. The other — titled "Romantic Love" — can be traced back to 1939 and sculptor Mario Korbel.

"These exceptional works of art carry significant historical and cultural value for our town," said First Selectman Monica McNally, who noted that the pieces have served as beloved landmarks for sailors since their shiny white surfaces reflect light and spotlights, making them visible for miles off shore. They're located on the lawn by the main house on Great Island.

The statutes are "double figures," an uncommon feature that adds to their artistic rarity and contributes to their appraised value of $425,000. Each stands around 4.5 to 5.5 feet, McNally said.

"The Steinkraus family's generosity and commitment to preserving our town's heritage through art should be recognized and embraced. Accepting these statues will be a testament to our town's dedication to cultural enrichment and historical preservation," McNally said, adding that the town will have to "diligently take care of them and maintain them" to preserve their beauty and historical significance.

"On behalf of our entire community, I'd like to express our deepest gratitude to the Steinkraus family for their exceptional generosity in offering these breathtaking works of art," McNally said. "It's an honor to be considered the recipients of such a remarkable gift."

Great Island is currently closed to the public. The town is putting together an advisory committee to oversee post-acquisition tasks that need to be completed in order to allow public access.

Work will include widening roads, creating parking areas, and addressing some safety, accessibility and environmental issues.