catalog text
"ROMANI WOMAN" (1887) MARBLE BUST BY E. ZELLALINI (ITALIAN, 19TH CENTURY)
Signed verso "E. Zellalini '87"
Item # 911QTC16D
An exquisite carved Carrara marble bust of a Romani woman, this rich depiction is an uncommon look at these curious travelers during the late 19th century. Her garment is so finely detailed, her neckline decorated with pierced lace around high polish beads and a relief embroidered garment that loosely follows the decorations of her head wrap. This is finished with stacks of high polish jingling coins resting over the curls of her chaotic hair. The necklace around her neck is set with thirteen polished coins, each with different emblems and symbols carved into them.
With bright eyes and a cheery disposition, the study is a fascinating look at a woman with a strong spirit of optimism and a passion for life. The reverse is signed by an unknown Italian artist "E. Zellalini" and dated 1887.
Measurements: 28" H x 10" D x 16 1/2" W
Condition Report:
Minor flea bite chips around edges of socle and bottom edges of bust; discolorations to marble.