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Prophet in oriental dress
Italian (Venice) (possibly)
Renaissance
about 1600
Object Place: Venice, Italy (possibly)
Medium/Technique
Gilt-bronze
Dimensions
18.4 x 6.7 x 4.8 cm (7 1/4 x 2 5/8 x 1 7/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. John Goelet in honor of Hanns Swarzenski
Accession Number1976.840
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsEurope
ClassificationsSculpture
DescriptionThe small scale of this gilt-bronze figure, the relatively unfinished back and hollow underside suggest that it was made to be incorporated, with others of its kind, into a larger architectural framework, perhaps a house altar. Stylistically, the sculpture recalls the work of Venetian sculptor Alessandro Vittoria (1525-1608). It is possible, however, that it was made in Augsburg where Venetian influence was strong; nevertheless the figure is much less dynamic than most South German sculpture of this period, the only gesture made by the detachable left hand. Despite the overall static effect of this piece, there is considerable visual interest resulting from the contrast of matt and chased areas, such as the fur of the hat, the beard, the fringe on the robe and the texture of the inner garment, with plain burnished areas.
ProvenanceBefore 1976, David Peel & Co., London. By 1976, John Goelet, New York; 1976, gift of John Goelet to the MFA. (Accession Date: January 12, 1977)