Masquerade by Fortunato Galli

Fortunato Galli
1835-1918 | Italian

Masquerade

Signed "F. Galli FIRENZE"
White Carrara marble

Masquerade, a traditional yet playful composition by Fortunato Galli, reflects the realism and intricacy that defined Italian sculpture at the end of the 19th century. Magnificently carved, the monumental work captures a beautiful woman at a masquerade as she peels her mask from her face, revealing her secret identity. The virtuosity of the sculpture is breathtaking, from her delicate lace bodice to the hint of stockings that encase her shapely legs. Masterfully rendered, she represents the perfect marriage of classical beauty and a romantic sentiment that has come to define the work of this Italian master. 

Born in Livorno on the west coast of Tuscany, Fortunato Galli spent most of his life in Florence, where he enjoyed a faithful following. The majority of his sculptures were religious subjects, which he crafted for the major Tuscan churches, including his principal work, his famed statue of Pope Gregory VII that resides in the Duomo in Florence. His decorative sculptures such as this were far more playful in style, capturing gypsies and beautiful women in charming narratives.

Circa 1883

18 1/2" wide x 20" deep x 52 1/2" high