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748 - Bronze sculpture of Venus Anadyomene, Italian Renaissance, 1…
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Estimate €1,500 - €4,000
Sale commission
Description
Bronze sculpture of Venus Anadyomene, Italian Renaissance, 16th century Patinated and cast bronze. Dimensions: 16 x 11 x 11 cm. Provenance: San Giorgi Collection, Rome. This sculpture depicts Venus Anadyomene, an iconographic motif derived from classical models showing the goddess Venus emerging from the waters following her birth at sea. The female figure is depicted nude, standing on a large shell or scallop, a motif closely associated with the goddess’s birth since antiquity. The composition is set upon an organic, marine-inspired base, in which forms evoking waves, aquatic creatures and fantastical elements characteristic of the Mannerist decorative repertoire can be identified. As regards the identification of the elements on the base, the photograph clearly shows the large central scallop upon which the figure rests, whilst the lateral forms appear to represent stylised marine creatures. However, it cannot be stated with complete certainty that they are specifically hippocampi (mythological sea horses), as the anatomical details appear highly stylised and partially eroded by the casting and patina. It is more accurate to describe them as fantastical sea creatures or marine zoomorphic motifs, a common approach in small Italian bronzes inspired by Renaissance models. The work exhibits a distinctly Mannerist character in the stylisation of the figure, the elongation of the proportions, and the overall decorative conception. These types of small cabinet bronzes enjoyed great popularity amongst collectors and scholars during the 16th and 17th centuries, particularly in the artistic circles of northern Italy, where sculptors and foundry workers continually reinterpreted classical and Renaissance models. The dark patina and the quality of the casting help to enhance the piece’s expressiveness and decorative appeal. Owing to its iconography, quality of execution and formal conception, the piece can be placed within the tradition of small Italian bronzes ...
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About the sale GRAND JULY AUCTION – FINE ART, OLD MASTERS AND JEWELLERY
Auction location
Auction time 07/15/2026 at 3:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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