Satyr and Bacchante, 1880, White Marble Sculptures, Set of 2

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A rare pair of marble busts from the second half of the 19th century. Finely carved in white marble, these … Read more A rare pair of marble busts from the second half of the 19th century. Finely carved in white marble, these artworks depict captivating mythological subjects: a satyr and a bacchante. The two sculptures present an elegant expressive contrast: on one side, the grotesque and vibrant face of the faun, with curved horns, pointed ears, a protruding tongue, and feral teeth; on the other, the serene grace of the young nymph, with her idealized face and hair adorned with bunches of grapes and vine shoots.

the satyr, or faun in roman tradition, belongs to the dionysian procession: an instinctive, wild, and vital creature, he embodies the primal impulses of nature, wine, and sensuality. The maenads, or bacchae, are the possessed followers of dionysus/bacchus, female figures associated with sacred intoxication, dance, and the god's orgiastic rites.

the works reflect the refined taste of late 19th-century italy, linked to the rediscovery of classical mythology, the dionysian world, and decorative sculpture from the grand tour. The exceptional quality of the workmanship is evident in the modeling of the hair, the smoothness of the surfaces, and the naturalistic details, combining academic elegance with the lively theatricality of baroque style.

statues with extraordinary stage presence, ideal for classical settings, professional studios, libraries, or contemporary interiors where a sculptural element with a strong personality is desired. Decorative objects with remarkable aesthetic impact, sought after by international collectors for the beauty of the subject and the rarity of a marble companion. The sculptures exhibit some signs of aging and small chips, but are overall in good condition. Dimensions satyr: h 52 x w 37 x d 26 cm - bacchante: h 53 x w 35 x d 25 cm See less