Tuscan Artist, Head of the Infant Jesus (Bambino Gesù), 1790, Polychrome Stucco

Details

Description

18th Century Tuscan Polychrome Stucco Head of the Infant Jesus (Bambino Gesù)
A deeply evocative 18th-century Tuscan polychrome stucco head … Read more 18th Century Tuscan Polychrome Stucco Head of the Infant Jesus (Bambino Gesù)
A deeply evocative 18th-century Tuscan polychrome stucco head of the Infant Jesus, retaining its original hand-painted decoration and exceptional devotional presence.

Beautifully modelled with softly rounded cheeks, delicately painted eyebrows, expressive dark eyes and gently parted vermillion lips, this finely sculpted head captures the innocence and serenity synonymous with representations of the Christ Child during the Baroque period. Delicate traces of the original auburn painted hair remain visible around the crown, while subtle flesh tones and surviving polychrome decoration have mellowed gracefully through more than two centuries.

During the eighteenth century, devotional sculptures such as this were commissioned for churches, monasteries and private chapels throughout Tuscany. Figures of the Christ Child, or Bambino Gesù, played an important role in domestic and ecclesiastical worship, particularly during Christmas celebrations and feast days. The exceptional craftsmanship seen here reflects the highly skilled Tuscan workshops renowned for their expressive modelling and lifelike polychrome finishes.

Originally created as the head of a larger devotional sculpture, the surviving shoulder section and original fixing holes indicate that it would once have been attached to a substantial body, either sculpted or constructed from wood and textile. Separated from its original figure over time, the head has become a compelling sculptural fragment in its own right.

For ease of display, a discreet later mounting base has been added, allowing the sculpture to be appreciated as an independent work of art while preserving its historical integrity.

The surface has developed a remarkable patina, displaying gentle craquelure, areas of paint wear and natural discolouration that bear witness to centuries of devotional use. These untouched surfaces greatly enhance its authenticity and character.

Today this remarkable piece appeals equally to collectors of Italian religious art, Grand Tour objects, cabinet curiosities and early sculpture. Whether displayed within a classical interior, a study or a carefully curated collection, it possesses an undeniable presence and quiet spirituality.

A rare surviving fragment of eighteenth-century Tuscan devotional sculpture with exceptional decorative and historical appeal.

Condition
Good antique condition.

Retaining its original polychrome decoration with expected age-related wear throughout. Areas of surface rubbing, craquelure, minor paint losses and natural discolouration are entirely consistent with its age. There are small losses around the nose and lips together with general surface wear acquired through centuries of devotional use.

The sculpture is presented on a later display base for stability and ease of presentation.

Please refer to the photographs as they form part of the condition report.

Measurements
Height: 15 cm / 5.9 inches

Width: 12 cm / 4.7 inches

Depth: 9 cm / 3.5 inches

Weight: 0.5 kg / 1.1 lbs This piece is designed in the style of the selected designer and/or manufacturer See less