catalog text
WORKSHOP OF BARSANTI
Italy, 20th century
A Young Stone Carver
Carrara marble | signed to the back by Barsanti, Pietrasanta | circa first half of the 20th century
Item # 304QGS30Q
A powerful study of a young stone-carver, he rests against the stone of his tradecraft, the young sculptor simple hefting his hammer in one hand and gingerly holding his chisel in his other hand as he braces his tired back against his leg. The image is a fine example of technical realism in the finely rendered nude study while it has the most subtle hints of angular stylizing that show the influence of the Art Deco period on the sculptor. His hair cuts at chaotic geometrical angles that frame the angularity of his face brilliantly. It is signed along the back of the sculpture by the House of Barsanti and noting its origin in their location in Pietrasanta.
The workshop was founded in the small tuscan town of Pietrasanta in 1882 by Martino Barsanti not far from the Carrara marble quarries and in the early 20th century and has carved marble ever since. The firm continues to operate today, now in its 5th generation.
Note: this is carved from a single solid block of Carrara marble and as a result is incredibly heavy, weighing in at over 300 lbs. It will certainly require some careful planning on how you will receive it, where it will be placed and also to make arrangements for assistance in receiving it. Unless other arrangements are made, our gallery shipments are always "curbside only", which means the driver will not unpack or assist in bringing the crated shipment past the nearest curb.
Measurements: 30 1/2" H x 20" D x 17" W
Condition Report:
Fine original condition. Some minor chipping and wear to the stone throughout. Discoloration and trace grime. A powerful presentation.