Decorative Art Is Damaged At Junior League Showcase

Candace Braun

A case of vandalism occurred last week at The Hodge House at 74 Mercer Street, where the 13th Junior League Showcase is now taking place.

A Ferro cement pig, designed by sculptor Robert Cannon, was severely damaged and now sits covered by a white sheet on the front lawn of the property. The pig was valued at $2,500.

The damaged landscape decoration was found on Thursday, May 6, at approximately 7:15 a.m. It was discovered by Chris Jones, husband of Jo Jones, president-elect of the Junior League of Greater Princeton. Police believe the incident occurred sometime during the night of Wednesday, May 5.

The group of five decorative pigs were found "in an extremely awkward position," said Ms. Jones.

A security guard from Princeton Theological Seminary called Borough Police Thursday morning, and Ptl. James Martinez investigated the criminal mischief. There are currently no suspects for the crime.

"You can understand the [humor behind it], but the destruction is disappointing," said Ms. Jones.

The artist, Mr. Cannon, is offering a $1,000 reward to anyone with information regarding the culprit. He said he is very distraught by the damage.

"It was a senseless, brutish act," said Mr. Cannon. "It was all hand-built, each one is like an original."

He said that the art had been sold to someone who had seen it at the Junior League Showcase, and the pigs were meant to be a Mother's Day present for someone.

"Nothing like this has ever happened to my artwork before," said Mr. Cannon.

Anyone with information regarding the vandalism should call the Borough Police at (609) 924-4141.