Lot 79: - Donato Barcaglia , Italian 1849 - 1930 girl surprised by a mouse white marble

signed: D Barcaglia Milano white marble

measurements note 100cm., 39 3/8 in.

Donato Barcaglia was one of the major exponents of Italian sculpture in the last quarter of the 19υth century. Panzetta notes that he became the head of one of the most prolific and successful sculpture studios in Italy.

Barcaglia's command over marble is best expressed in the sweet verismo of intimate genre figures such as the present Girl Surprised by a Mouse. The contrasting surfaces of the girl's skin, hair and intricate contemporary costume give the sculptor the opportunity to display a variation of carving techniques. This particular subject also allowed Barcaglia to showcase a mastery of female form and expression.

RELATED LITERATURE
Panzetta, vol. I, p. 72; Vicario, vol. I, pp. 68-74