307 - Important putto sculpture in carved marble, Italy, 17th century

Important putto sculpture in carved marble, Italy, 17th century Sculpture in carved white marble. Dimensions: 42 cm high. This sculpture in the round depicts a nude boy, modeled after the ornamental styles of the Italian Baroque. The composition is notable for the movement of the torso, the slight tilt of the head, and the naturalistic rendering of the anatomy, with rounded forms and smooth transitions in volume. The face features prominent cheeks, slightly parted lips, and a lively expression, framed by abundant hair with deeply carved curls that create an attractive interplay of light and shadow. Its sculptural language shows affinities with the tradition of Gian Lorenzo Bernini (1598–1680), especially in the facial expressiveness, bodily dynamism, and the delicacy of the modeling, as well as with certain works by Alessandro Algardi (1598–1654), due to the idealized treatment of the boy’s figure and the smoothness of the surfaces. These references constitute stylistic parallels and do not imply a direct attribution. The piece may have been part of a larger religious or decorative sculptural ensemble, possibly an altarpiece, funerary monument, or architectural composition. It shows losses on both arms and the lower limbs, as well as wear, minor erosion, and surface irregularities. The proposed chronology requires confirmation through direct examination. Lot in international warehouse (within the EU). Intra-EU shipment: no import duties apply within the EU. An export permit from the country of origin may be required.