catalog text
CESARE CONSTANTINO CERIBELLI
Italian, 1841-1918
"Bust of a Young Woman"
Polychromed and chemically patinated bronze | signed to the reverse shoulder "C. Ceribelli" | raised on original rouge marble base over bronze rim
Item # 408WKJ28A
A very fine bust of a young woman, the maiden is serious and stoic with a strong jaw and set features. Typical of Ceribelli's work, extraordinary attention is shown to the garment and hair of the figure. While her outer garment is finished to a perfect smoothness, the high collars framing her face beautifully, the shirt beneath is an intricate bas-relief and texture decorated work of art complete with a lovely necklace that retains partial polychroming of the jewels. The same bejeweled elements are found in her garment, the deep greens and ruby reds popping against the darker brown of the garment.
Note the very fine chiseling of the model's hair - every hair is captured and expressed with endless hours of punching and hammering, chiseling and chasing to create the lovely texture. Her hair is captured in a hat that is primarily backed by a ruby red fabric with stringed ties that create a vibrant undulating and living hair covering. It is highlighted with yellow and green gem-like elements.
The bronze is raised over a beautiful rouge marble base with inverted corners situated on a conforming polished bronze rim.
Measurements: 22" H (20" H without base); base is 7" D x 7" W
Condition Report:
Very minor wear and thinning to the original patina throughout; rubbing through the polychroming of the necklace and a few other elements; carefully cleaned and sealed in conservator's wax, a very fine presentation that is ready to place.