The U.S. Postal Service’s 2024 Christmas stamp, featuring Madonna and Child by 17th-century artist Giovanni Sassoferrato, has two unique ties to Marian University.
First, Marian University student Allie Miller ’25, a chemistry major with a minor in studio art, played a pivotal role in researching this masterpiece during her 2024 Marian Summer Scholars Program internship. Working with Marian Assistant Professor of Chemistry Alexandra Tamerius, Ph.D., and Gregory Smith, Ph.D., Senior Conservation Scientist at Newfields, Miller gained hands-on experience analyzing the painting’s materials and authenticity.
“This piece was a mystery to us at first because its composition differed from Sassoferrato’s other works,” Miller shared. “It was an exciting challenge and a nationally recognized project.” Her research confirmed that the materials aligned with those used in Sassoferrato’s workshop, solidifying its place in the artist’s portfolio.
Dr. Tamerius highlighted the importance of the experience: “Allie gained exposure to state-of-the-art instrumentation and professional research collaborations. This opportunity has been invaluable for her career in art conservation.” Miller plans to pursue this path further, calling the internship a dream come true. “Having my name attached to the stamp is exciting and will bolster my grad school applications,” she said.
Marian University’s Allison Mansion houses another Sassoferrato painting, The Holy Family, part of the university’s extensive art collection of over 300 works. This Baroque masterpiece underscores Marian’s rich artistic heritage, largely curated by the Sisters of St. Francis Oldenburg. To make the collection more accessible, Dr. Jamie Higgs is leading a digitization project, inspired by her connection to the Sisters.
“The Marian art collection is part of our identity,” Dr. Higgs said. “Digitizing it ensures that its legacy continues to inform teaching, research, and community engagement.”
Marian’s connection to the USPS Christmas stamp highlights its dedication to fostering interdisciplinary research and celebrating the arts, offering opportunities for students and the broader community to engage with the university’s cultural treasures.
For details on art collection digitization , contact Jamie Higgs (jhiggs@marian.edu). For details on research at the intersection of art and chemistry, contact Alexandra Tamerius (atamerius@marian.edu) Finally, for more information about the Summer Scholars Program, please reach out to the Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR@marian.edu).