Francesco de Matteis, The Children's Concert, 19th Century, Patinated Bronze

Details

Description

Sculpture “The Children’s Concert”, patinated bronze, Francesco de Matteis, late 19th century - Italy

Title of the work: “The Children’s … Read more Sculpture “The Children’s Concert”, patinated bronze, Francesco de Matteis, late 19th century - Italy

Title of the work: “The Children’s Concert”
Material: Patinated bronze
Artist: Francesco de Matteis
Foundry: Fond Art Lagana
Period: Late 19th century
Country of origin: Naples, Italy
Good condition considering its age and use
Dimensions: 30 x 43 x 19 cm

A wonderful patinated bronze sculpture of three child musicians, signed by Francesco de Matteis, an Italian sculptor born in 1852 who dedicated much of his artistic career to representing the daily life of Neapolitan society through his sculptures. The group is part of the work “The Children’s Concert,” also known as “The Circus.”

The group captures three children in the middle of an impromptu concert during the popular festivals of the city of Naples. The work features meticulous modeling, which allows one to see the difference in texture between the children's faces, with their smooth, soft texture, and their clothing, full of folds, with its rougher texture.
It boasts a multitude of details, such as the figures' diverse expressions and gestures, ranging from joy to authority. The figure on the left and the central figure wear simpler clothing, with the central figure's top hat adorned with a feather being the only distinguishing feature. However, the figure on the right wears a military uniform, complete with epaulettes, decorations, and a bicorn hat. The figures are depicted with various items typical of a festive occasion, such as castanets and a ceremonial staff. The theatricality and dynamism of the composition are striking, due to the children's varied poses, which suggest they are about to move at any moment.

The sculpture rests on an asymmetrical, textured bronze base, which bears the hallmark of the Neapolitan foundry Fond Art Lagana, established in 1890, where the piece was cast, and the signature of G. Cuspinera, from the Barcelona business where the sculpture was discovered in the late 19th century. This piece has an attribution mark,
I am sure that it is completely authentic and take full responsibility for any authenticity
issues arising from misattribution See less