Italian School, Bust of Pope Pius IX, 1800s, Alabaster

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Antique alabaster bust of pope pius ix – italian school, 19th century

elegant antique alabaster bust depicting pope pius ix … Read more Antique alabaster bust of pope pius ix – italian school, 19th century

elegant antique alabaster bust depicting pope pius ix (1792–1878), who reigned as pontiff from 1846 to 1878.

italian, dating from the second half of the 19th century, this finely executed sculpture portrays the pope wearing his traditional skullcap and richly ornamented ecclesiastical vestments.

the delicately modelled face, with its gentle expression, contrasts with the elaborate carved decoration of the garments, featuring foliate motifs, scrolling ornamentation and tasselled cords.

carved from warm ivory-coloured alabaster, the bust retains its original circular pedestal and original attachment.

the sculpture is unsigned and remains in very good overall antique condition, with minor surface marks and natural variations consistent with age and material. No restoration observed.

a distinctive example of historical religious portraiture, combining refined sculptural craftsmanship with the decorative appeal of 19th-century italian ecclesiastical art.

dimensions: h 24.5 × w 17 × d 12 cm
weight: 3.45 kg
material: alabaster
origin: presumably italy
period: probably second half of the 19th century
condition: very good antique condition
signature: unsigned See less