Vincenzo Gemito (1852-1929) - Lot 82

Lot 82
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Estimation :
15000 - 20000 EUR
Résultat : NC
Vincenzo Gemito (1852-1929) - Lot 82
Vincenzo Gemito (1852-1929) The Philosopher (second version) Bronze bust with brown patina Signed "GEMITO" on the back of the pedestal Inscribed "PROPRIETA / ARTISTICA". Numbered "413" inside H. 53 cm The bust of the Philosopher accompanied the brilliant and tormented Neapolitan street sculptor throughout his life. Initially modeled in 1883, the inspired figure with the thinker's deep, intense gaze was reworked by Gemito thirty years later on his return to Naples after his long stay in Paris. A work of universal appeal inspired by Antiquity, akin to the famous busts of Pseudo-Seneca and Diogenes, or an intimate portrait of his beloved father-in-law Masto Ciccio, the sculpture has been the subject of much comment. The rare second version we present is probably more of an intimate portrait. The philosopher's features are more detailed and naturalistic than in the 1883 version. While the resemblance to Masto Ciccio, who proudly poses behind the bust of the Philosopher with the team from the Gémito foundry in Naples in an 1888 photo, is undeniable, some experts on the artist also see in it the introspective, more subdued incarnation of the sculptor at the end of his life. The precision casting, chiselled with particular care around the eyes and in the beard, is masterly. It bears no founder's mark, but the Italian wording "Proprieta / Atrtistica" and the virtuosity of the proof suggest the sculptor's talented involvement in his own Neapolitan foundry in Via Margellina. Related works: -Vincenzo Gemito, The Philosopher, first version, bronze, size 42 x 38 cm, Naples, Capodimonte Museum; -Vincenzo Gemito, The Philosopher, second version, bronze, size 42 x 38 cm, Rome, Chines Collection. Related literature: -Jean-Loup Champion, Gemito : le sculpteur de l'âme napolitaine, cat. exp. Paris, Petit Palais, October 15, 2019-January 26, 2020, Naples, Museo e Real Bosco di Capodimonte, March 15-June 16, 2020, Paris, Paris Musées, pp. 163-177.
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