La Casta Susanna by Urbano Lucchesi

Urbano Lucchesi
1844 - 1906 | Italian

La Casta Susanna
(The Chaste Susanna)

Marble

This elegant statue entitled La Casta Susanna depicts the virtuous biblical figure Susanna, expertly crafted by Italian sculptor Urbano Lucchesi—the most important sculptor of nineteenth-century Lucca, Italy. The narrative of Susanna—found in versions of the Book of Daniel—portrays her as a virtuous wife unjustly accused of adultery by two elders when she rejects their advances. Daniel's intervention reveals discrepancies in the elders' stories, ultimately vindicating Susanna and highlighting her moral integrity. Numerous artists have depicted this narrative, notably during the early Christian era and the later Renaissance and Baroque periods.

This stunning marble statue presents Susanna in a classically inspired pose, her figure exemplifying an elegant contrapposto crafted by a master artisan. A sheet covers her form in modesty, carved to appear soft and light—a remarkable achievement in marble. Likewise, her features are rendered with an expert hand, appearing almost lifelike in stone.

Urbano Lucchesi, renowned for his significant contributions to the artistic heritage of Lucca and beyond, is the most prominent artist in nineteenth-century Lucca. His works are integral to the city’s cultural landscape, with prominent sculptures adorning its streets and squares. Notable works include busts of Giuseppe Mazzini, Benedetto Cairoli and Vincenzo Consani, as well as monuments to Giuseppe Garibaldi and the fallen of Italy’s battles. Lucchesi’s influence extended to Florence, where he created the monument to Donatello outside the sculptor’s studio, and to Viareggio, where he crafted the impressive monument to the romantic poet Percy Bysshe Shelley.

La Casta Susanna is not only a stunning representation of a biblical tale but also a sculpture that embodies the artistic and cultural essence of its era. Statues of the same figure can be seen in museums worldwide and at churches such as the Santa Maria di Loreto.

Late 19th century

Signed “Lucchesi”

Inscribed “La Casta Susanna”

54 1/2" high x 15" wide x 14 1/2" deep