Nevil (C.Nevil) - Bust, Busto di Giovane Moro Sorridente (Jeune Maure) - 35 cm - Patinated bronze

Spectacular patinated bronze sculpture signed 'Nevil' (attributable to the sculptor C. Nevil, active in the first half of the 20th century). The work depicts the bust of a young African boy, an iconic subject of the European Orientalist movement that was very popular between the two world wars.

The artist demonstrates exceptional mastery in physiognomic rendering: the modeling of the face is vibrant, with particular attention to the texture of curly hair and the smoothness of the skin. What makes this piece unique is the expression: a radiant and natural smile that immediately captures the viewer's gaze.
The sculpture rests on an original marble/travertino stepped base, with a geometrically designed, typically Art Deco style.

C. Nevil (often referred to as Charles or Clement Nevil in international auction houses, although biographically he is a figure shrouded in a certain mystery, typical of many 'petits maîtres' of that period).
Period: Active between the 1920s and 1940s of the twentieth century.
Style: European Orientalism / Art Deco.
Unlike the classical sculptors who sought ideal perfection, Nevil sought expression. He is renowned precisely for his ability to bring life to the eyes and mouths of his subjects, often capturing them in laughs or natural grimaces.