Neapolitan Presepio Magus King Melchior Nativity Figure by Maestro Alfredo Molli Italy - Signed

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This extraordinary Neapolitan Presepio figure is a masterwork by the renowned contemporary artisan Alfredo Molli. Hand-signed by the artist, this … Read more This extraordinary Neapolitan Presepio figure is a masterwork by the renowned contemporary artisan Alfredo Molli. Hand-signed by the artist, this statuette represents the Magus King Melchior, traditionally the eldest of the Three Wise Men, captured in a moment of profound reverence as he offers his gift. Every detail reflects the pinnacle of 18th-century Neapolitan craftsmanship, from the expertly modeled polychrome terracotta head with lifelike set-in glass eyes to the hand-carved linden wood limbs and poseable wire-and-tow armature. He is opulently dressed in the Orientalist fashion favored by the Bourbon court, wearing a hand-sewn silk and brocade caftan embellished with intricate metallic bullion embroidery, sequins, and a pearl-adorned turban topped with a hand-chased silver crown featuring turquoise-colored accents. The figure is complete with a miniature ornamental sterling dagger tucked into his sash and a ceremonial silver-toned dish presented on a stiffened red velvet pillow trimmed with gold bullion fringe.

The Art and Artist: Alfredo Molli
Alfredo Molli is celebrated as a "Maestro" of the Italian nativity tradition, operating out of his specialized workshop in Scafati, Italy. Known for a style called "Arte in Movimento" (Art in Motion), Molli is distinguished by his ability to imbue figures with dynamic realism and psychological depth. His work is not merely a holiday decoration but a fine art investment, highly sought after by collectors for its strict adherence to the centuries-old techniques of the Neapolitan masters.

History of the Neapolitan Presepio
The Neapolitan Presepio is one of Italy's most storied artistic traditions, reaching its "Golden Age" in the 1700s under the patronage of King Charles III. Unlike standard nativity scenes, the Neapolitan version is a grand theatrical spectacle that blends the sacred with the profane, placing the birth of Christ in the middle of a bustling 18th-century Naples. These displays were once the ultimate status symbol for European aristocrats, who competed to create the most elaborate scenes filled with exotic processions, crumbling Roman ruins, and vibrant street life.
Dimensions (approximately):
18.75" H x 8" L x 8" W
2.6 lbs See less