19th Century Sculpture of a Shepherdess with Lamb, 1874, Marble

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An exquisite and highly refined 19th-century marble sculpture depicting a young shepherdess accompanied by her lamb, displaying exceptional craftsmanship and … Read more An exquisite and highly refined 19th-century marble sculpture depicting a young shepherdess accompanied by her lamb, displaying exceptional craftsmanship and remarkable attention to detail. The sculpture bears a partially illegible signature, possibly reading "Antonio," together with the date 1874, providing an important historical reference for this beautiful work. Carved from marble with extraordinary delicacy, the composition captures the tenderness and poetic charm of rural life, a subject particularly appreciated in European sculpture during the second half of the 19th century. The young shepherdess is represented alongside her lamb, creating an intimate and harmonious composition that evokes innocence, serenity and the idealized beauty of pastoral life. Particularly noteworthy is the exceptional quality of the marble carving, evident in the delicate treatment of the figure, the carefully modeled anatomy and the refined rendering of the sculptural details. The artist demonstrates considerable technical skill in transforming the solid marble into a composition of remarkable softness and naturalism. The sculpture reflects the Romantic and Naturalist tendencies of 19th-century European sculpture, when artists frequently turned to pastoral subjects, rural traditions and idealized representations of everyday life. Standing an impressive 80 cm (31.5 inches) high, the work possesses a substantial sculptural presence while retaining an intimate and graceful character. Its refined execution and charming subject matter make it particularly suitable for an elegant salon, entrance hall, gallery or important collection of 19th-century European sculpture. An outstanding example of 19th-century figurative marble sculpture, distinguished by its exceptional craftsmanship, beautifully rendered pastoral subject and intriguing period signature. Origin Europe, possibly Italy Period 19th Century, dated 1874 Artist Unidentified sculptor. Partially illegible signature, possibly reading "Antonio." Style Romanticism / Naturalism Materials Carved Marble Dimensions Height: 31.5 in. (80 cm) Width: 15.7 in. (40 cm) Depth: 13.4 in. (34 cm) Signature Partially illegible signature, possibly reading "Antonio," accompanied by the date 1874. Condition Antique condition consistent with age. Please refer carefully to the photographs for a detailed assessment of surface wear, possible imperfections and any historic restorations. Keywords: Marble Shepherdess, Shepherdess with Lamb, 19th Century Marble Sculpture, Antique Italian Marble, Pastoral Sculpture, Romantic Sculpture, Naturalist Sculpture, Signed Marble Sculpture, 1874, European Sculpture, See less