Large Bronze Grand Tour Centaur Signed Fernando De Luca

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19th Century Fernando De Luca, After Furietti, Bronze Centaur Sculpture is a fine example of the Grand Tour tradition. Furietti, … Read more 19th Century Fernando De Luca, After Furietti, Bronze Centaur Sculpture is a fine example of the Grand Tour tradition. Furietti, an Italian sculptor, was known for his skill in creating works that blended classical themes with the tastes of the neoclassical revival. This piece depicts a centaur, a mythical creature with the upper body of a human and lower body of a horse, a popular subject in classical art. Centaurs were associated with vigor and strength, emphasizing musculature and dramatic tension in heroic poses. Sculpture sits on a rectangular bronze base and has a rich warm patina.

The Italian Grand Tour was a cultural trip undertaken by young European aristocrats, primarily during the 18th and 19th centuries, in order to complete their education. Italy, with its rich history, art, and culture, was the focal point of these journeys. As part of their exploration, many travelers collected art and artifacts, including bronze sculptures, often as a symbol of their refined taste and as souvenirs from their travels. In essence, the collection of bronze sculptures during the Italian Grand Tour was a reflection of the era’s fascination with antiquity and the cultural and intellectual ideals of the time. Today, many of these works remain valuable examples of the intersection of art, history, and travel. See less