Sculpture

Important Pair of Adoring Angels in Gold-Bronze and Marble – 19th Century – Solid Bronze Magnificent and exceptionally dramatic pair of Adoring Angels in solid gilded bronze, depicted in a kneeling, mirror-like pose with hands joined in an attitude of deep devotion. The works, with extraordinary visual impact and execution quality, belong to the great decorative tradition from the late 19th century to the early 20th century, in the full taste of the French Neoclassical-Imperial Louis XVI. The figures display a modeling of the highest level, characterized by rare anatomical elegance and notable plastic sensitivity. The faces, with noble and idealized features, recall the classic purity of French and Italian neoclassical sculpture of the late 18th century, while the harmonious and elongated poses confer upon the whole a strong spirituality and a refined theatrical sense. Of exceptional value is the manual repoussé work on the wings, finely finished feather by feather with almost jewelry-like precision. The surfaces show a splendid old gilding with a warm and deep tone, probably mercury gilding, still magnificently preserved and capable of enhancing every detail of the casting. Light runs over the anatomies and the wings, creating a vibrant and monumental effect of great charm. They are produced with the ancient lost-wax casting technique, a complex and highly prestigious process used for the most important European bronze works. The quality of the casting is evident in the extraordinary definition of details, the smoothness of the anatomies, and the depth of the chasing. The sculptures are cast in solid full bronze and have an exceptional weight: about 5.6 kg for one angel and about 5.5 kg for the other, exclusively for the bronze figures. This is an extremely important datum that testifies to a high-level production, far from the light or hollow castings of 19th-century serial production. Originally conceived probably as important ornamental elements for a monumental altar, tabernacle, large imperial clock, or prestigious liturgical furnishing, the figures were subsequently mounted on elegant cylindrical white-veined marble columns, transforming them into extraordinary decorative works for a grand residence or collection. The marble columns are removable, as visible in the photo, and the angels still retain the old original fixing rods. This element further reinforces the authentic and architectural character of the work. The quality of the casting is notable also in the less visible details: hair, plumage, hands, and anatomy show an extremely refined and richly deep workmanship. The render of the wings, elongated upward, gives the whole a monumental verticality and an almost sacred elegance. Overall dimensions: height about 55 cm, depth 18 cm, width 12 cm. The condition is very good and extremely captivating. The original gilding is still largely present both on the reliefs and in the gilded hollows of the chasing. Normal signs of time are present, with light wear and small localized oxidations consistent with the period and absolutely non-invasive, elements that contribute to the authentic charm of the works and attest to their historicality. The marbles are in excellent overall condition. A pair of rare dramatic presence, intended for demanding collectors, representative interiors, or important classical and contemporary settings, capable of combining decorative force, spirituality, and great artistic quality. The photos are an integral part of the description. To ensure maximum safety during transport, the marble columns will be shipped separately from the bronze sculptures. Therefore two insured shipments will be made for the full value of the work, with professional packaging produced by a certified specialty company in handling and packaging artworks.

Stima:€1,000

Vedi tutti gli oggetti diCatawikioMobili, Design & Specchi