Fonderia Gemito - Dal modello di Vincenzo Gemito (1852-1929) - Statue, Il filosofo - 50 cm - Patinated bronze
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€ 400
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Selected by Paul Wullems
He accumulated 18 years' experience, worked as junior specialist at Sotheby’s and managed Kunsthandel Jacques Fijnaut.
Estimate € 2,000 - € 2,500
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 Bidder 7983 | €400 | |
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| Bidder 7983 | €380 | |
| Bidder 7983 | €360 | |
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Description from the seller
Vincenzo Gemito (1852-1929) - 'The Philosopher' (Head of the Philosopher) - Bronze bust with dark patina, signed GEMITO
Magnificent dark-patinated bronze bust depicting 'The Philosopher' (or 'Head of the Philosopher'), one of the most iconic and celebrated works by the Neapolitan sculptor Vincenzo Gemito (1852-1929).
Modelled around 1883, this subject combines the verist realism typical of Gemito with inspiration from classical antiquity, evoking Hellenistic busts like the Pseudo-Seneca preserved at the National Archaeological Museum of Naples. The intense gaze, furrowed brow, wavy hair tied with a ribbon, and the thick, detailed beard give the face an expression of profound wisdom and introspection. It is also a personal homage: the model is Francesco Jadicicco ('Masto Ciccio'), the artist's adoptive father.
The piece bears the signature 'GEMITO' engraved on the back of the shoulder and a small mark/punch nearby, consistent with the foundries authorized by Fonderia Gemito Napoli (late 19th - early 20th century). The dark/brunished patina is uniform and striking, with excellent chasing of the anatomical details and the hairstyle. The integrated circular bronze base is original.
Condition: Very Good – preserved original patina, slight vintage wear, and minimal natural oxidation.
Material: bronze with a dark patina.
Dimensions: Total height approximately 50 cm; width about 15 cm; depth about 20 cm.
Weight: Approximately 11 kg (recommended pallet shipping).
Color: dark brown / burnished black.
A highly impactful piece with decorative appeal and collectible value, perfect for enthusiasts of 19th-century Italian sculpture and Neapolitan verismo.
References
M.S. De Marinis, Gemito, 1993
Gemito Exhibition Catalog, Museo di Capodimonte, Naples
Various similar specimens sold at international auction houses.
Provenance: from an Italian private collection.
Shipping: insured and with professional packaging (on pallet for safety).
Vincenzo Gemito (1852-1929) - 'The Philosopher' (Head of the Philosopher) - Bronze bust with dark patina, signed GEMITO
Magnificent dark-patinated bronze bust depicting 'The Philosopher' (or 'Head of the Philosopher'), one of the most iconic and celebrated works by the Neapolitan sculptor Vincenzo Gemito (1852-1929).
Modelled around 1883, this subject combines the verist realism typical of Gemito with inspiration from classical antiquity, evoking Hellenistic busts like the Pseudo-Seneca preserved at the National Archaeological Museum of Naples. The intense gaze, furrowed brow, wavy hair tied with a ribbon, and the thick, detailed beard give the face an expression of profound wisdom and introspection. It is also a personal homage: the model is Francesco Jadicicco ('Masto Ciccio'), the artist's adoptive father.
The piece bears the signature 'GEMITO' engraved on the back of the shoulder and a small mark/punch nearby, consistent with the foundries authorized by Fonderia Gemito Napoli (late 19th - early 20th century). The dark/brunished patina is uniform and striking, with excellent chasing of the anatomical details and the hairstyle. The integrated circular bronze base is original.
Condition: Very Good – preserved original patina, slight vintage wear, and minimal natural oxidation.
Material: bronze with a dark patina.
Dimensions: Total height approximately 50 cm; width about 15 cm; depth about 20 cm.
Weight: Approximately 11 kg (recommended pallet shipping).
Color: dark brown / burnished black.
A highly impactful piece with decorative appeal and collectible value, perfect for enthusiasts of 19th-century Italian sculpture and Neapolitan verismo.
References
M.S. De Marinis, Gemito, 1993
Gemito Exhibition Catalog, Museo di Capodimonte, Naples
Various similar specimens sold at international auction houses.
Provenance: from an Italian private collection.
Shipping: insured and with professional packaging (on pallet for safety).
Details
Era
1900-2000
Manufacturer/ Brand
Fonderia Gemito
Bronze type
Patinated bronze
Country of Origin
Italy
Style
Realism
Material
Bronze
Artist
Dal modello di Vincenzo Gemito (1852-1929)
Title of artwork
Il filosofo
Signature
Signed
Condition
Good condition
Height
50 cm
Width
15 cm
Depth
20 cm
Weight
11 kg
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