Italian 18th Century Marble Bust of a Girl

Italian 18th Century Marble Bust of a Girl

This exquisite Italian 18th Century Marble Bust of a Girl exudes neoclassical elegance, capturing the grace and naturalism characteristic of late 18th-century sculpture. Inspired by the refined style of Luigi Valadier, this antique marble sculpture exemplifies the grandeur associated with Italy’s celebrated artistic heritage.

Origin: Italy
Date: Circa 1780
Material: Marble

Dimensions: Height: 50 cm (19.7 in), Width: 30 cm (11.8 in), Depth: 19 cm (7.5 in)

Condition: Excellent patina, minor age-related wear commensurate with period

Marble busts of this era were favoured among discerning Grand Tour collectors, who admired Italian craftsmanship and brought such treasures back to Britain and across Europe. The sculptor’s nod to Luigi Valadier—one of Rome’s preeminent neoclassical makers—speaks to the piece’s artistic pedigree, with comparable examples housed in prestigious museums and private collections. This marble bust seamlessly integrates into both traditional and contemporary interiors, offering collectors and connoisseurs a tangible link to Italy’s artistic golden age.

Notable Features:

• Finely executed marble, with lifelike facial features and softly modelled hair, showcasing exceptional technical mastery
• Neoclassical influences evident in the bust’s poised posture and serene expression, echoing motifs seen in late 18th-century Italian art
• Sought-after provenance and form, rare in such preserved condition, distinguishing it within the realm of period sculpture
• Perfectly suited for prominent display—on a mantelpiece, plinth, or within a curated collection—offering enduring decorative and scholarly value

The Italian 18th Century Marble Bust of a Girl offers both aesthetic refinement and historic significance. As a focal point in any collection of marble sculpture, it combines rarity, exquisite craftsmanship, and timeless design. For lovers of antique sculpture and aficionados of Grand Tour pieces, this bust stands as a testament to Italian mastery and is a genuine celebration of classical beauty.