283 - CAST-IRON SCULPTURAL GROUP THE BLACKSMITH. KUSA IRON FOUNDRY. RUSSIA, KUSA, LATE 19TH - EARLY 20TH CENTURY.

CAST-IRON SCULPTURAL GROUP THE BLACKSMITH. KUSA IRON FOUNDRY. RUSSIA, KUSA, LATE 19TH - EARLY 20TH CENTURY. A monumental cast-iron sculptural composition depicting a blacksmith at work at his anvil. The figure is shown at the moment of striking: his bare torso is tense, his right arm is raised high holding a hammer, while his left hand holds a blacksmith`s tool. The dynamic turn of the figure, pronounced modelling of the musculature and concentrated expression lend the composition a powerful and heroic character. Particular attention has been given to the details of the working environment, including the anvil, tools, leather apron and metal workpiece. The sculpture is set on a circular stepped base. Its considerable height of 61 cm distinguishes it from conventional cabinet sculpture and gives the composition a particularly imposing and decorative presence. The composition belongs to the tradition of artistic cast iron produced by the Kusa Iron Foundry, one of the important centres of Ural artistic metalwork in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Models of blacksmiths in various sizes formed part of the factory`s pre-revolutionary production, placing the present work within the broader context of its serial artistic output. Material: Cast iron; casting, chasing and painted finish. Dimensions: Height 61 cm. Marks: The base bears the cast manufactory mark КУС.З. of the Kusa Iron Foundry together with the Imperial Russian double-headed eagle. Such markings belong to the historical system of manufacturer`s and manufactory marks used to identify the producer and assist in establishing the period of manufacture. Condition: Good condition, with signs of age and oxidation. Width: 12cm, Height: 61cm, Depth: 12cm, Condition: Good with rust traces, Material: Cast iron, ID: ID-ANTQ-17228