Emilio Zocchi

Estimate

30,000 - 40,000 GBP

bidding is closed

Description

emilio zocchi
The masquerade
signed: E.ZOCCHI F: FLORENCE.
white marble on a mottled red and black marble column

Condition

Overall the condition of the marble is very good. There are some minor inclusions to the surface consistent with material particularly on the right leg and breast. There are minor chips to the flowers in the left hand.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

This mischievously masked woman is a virtuoso example of Italian genre carving. Lace, ruffles and tassels have been ingeniously reproduced in the unforgiving stone as the sculptor chiselled away the layers of marble beginning from the point of the right index finger.

Emilio Zocchi was a consummate master of the informal genre subject. His best-known work was his much copied Michelangelo, which showed the artistic genius as a young boy wearing a sculptor's apron as he bends low in concentration over a carved head, hammer and chisel in hand. In the same vein Zocchi here evokes the popular atmosphere of the carnival or the comedia del'arte. Taking full advantage of the licence granted to a masked identity this marble masquerader steps forth in an unseemly state of dress with her blouse slipping over her shoulder and frilled pantaloons above exposed ankles. The pose and gestures, with the right hand pointing forwards and the left holding roses suggest an unknown narrative. The elaborate headdress and specific costume may even describe a particular theatrical character. Whilst the identity of the figure remains a mystery the marble is a rare and accomplished testament to its creator and typifies an important movement in late 19^th century marble carving.

RELATED LITERATURE
Panzetta, vol II, p. 993