Lot 89: CIRCLE OF GIUSEPPE MAZZA (1653-1741), ITALIAN, BOLOGNA, CIRCA 1700, | St. Joseph, Christ Child and an Angel

The pyramidal composition of this group with three figures, the dynamic movement of the drapery, subdivided in several folds, as well as the intimate theme from Christ's childhood are a perfect expression of the Italian Baroque in Bologna. Those characteristics can be found throughout Giuseppe Maria Mazza's artworks, who brought Bolognese terracotta sculpture to its apogee from the late 17th century to the first third of the 18th century. His Holy Family, in the Bayerisches Nationalmuseum (Munich, inv. no. 63/14), or his terracotta of the same theme, in the Pinacoteca (Bologna), can be mentioned.

39 x 33 x 20 cm; 15 3/8 by 13 by 7 7/8 in.

terracotta group

In overall good condition, terracotta fairly modelled with some surface dirt and a few minor chips to the edges of the base. Some brighter paints consistent with age and handling. A slip all over one surface could possibly hide old restorations. Both angel's wings and both big toes are missing. The end of the hanging drapery to his proper left foot has been reattached and his head as well. His proper right small finger is missing. There are some small lacks to the draperies at some places, notably to the right of his proper left foot. His proper left big toe is missing. The proper left hand of Christ is missing. The terracotta has been hollowed with a long open window visible to the back. Two fissures to the back of the terracotta have been consolidated.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

RELATED LITERATURE
J. Fleming, "Giuseppe Mazza", The Connoisseur, November 1961, pp. 207-215.