Antique Grand Tour Tanagra Female Figure - 22 cm (No reserve price)

Antique Grand Tour Tanagra Female Figurine – 19th Century, circa 1850–1900

Charming antique Grand Tour figurine inspired by the celebrated Tanagra sculptures of ancient Greece, attributed to the mid-to-late 19th century (circa 1850–1900).

The sculpture depicts an elegant standing female figure, gracefully wrapped in a richly draped mantle, with her head covered and holding what appears to be a circular fan.

The beautifully modelled folds of the garment, classical proportions and graceful silhouette reflect the fascination with Greek antiquity that characterised the European Grand Tour tradition during the 19th century.

Executed in plaster or ceramic, the figurine displays an attractive aged surface with warm ivory, beige and earthy brown tones, creating a distinctive archaeological appearance. The natural-looking patina, surface irregularities and subtle imperfections contribute to its evocative antique character.

Provenance and Collection History

An interesting feature of this piece is the presence of an old numbered paper label preserved on the underside of the rectangular base.This label suggests that the figurine may have previously formed part of a private collection, an antiquarian inventory, or an auction catalogue. Such labels were commonly used to identify and catalogue objects within collections and the art trade. this surviving label represents an intriguing detail that may point to an earlier collecting or sales history. Purchased from a private collection.

Historical Context

During the 19th century, the rediscovery and appreciation of ancient Greek Tanagra figurines inspired considerable interest among European collectors, scholars and travellers.These elegant representations of draped female figures became highly desirable, and reproductions were produced for collectors and enthusiasts of classical antiquity.

This figurine reflects that classical revival aesthetic and the collecting traditions associated with the Grand Tour.

Object Details

- Object: Tanagra-style female figurine
- Attributed period: Mid-to-late 19th century, circa 1850–1900 (could be older but needs detailed test)
- Style: Grand Tour / Greek Revival from Ttaly or France
- Material: Plaster or ceramic (not definitively identified)
- Height: 22 cm
- Width: 8 cm
- Colour: Aged ivory, beige and earthy brown
- Provenance: Old numbered collection or inventory label underneath the base; bought from private collection
- Condition: Antique patina, surface wear, deposits and age-related imperfections, as visible in the photographs

Condition and Final Remarks

The figurine presents an attractive aged appearance, with visible surface wear and irregularities throughout. Its classical subject, expressive drapery and surviving numbered label make it an appealing decorative and collectible object. An evocative piece for collectors of Grand Tour memorabilia, classical sculpture, Greek Revival art and historical decorative objects.