Lot 41: - Orazio Andreoni , Italian 19th Century Rebecca white marble

signed: O. Andreoni. Roma. and intitled REBECCA white marble

measurements note overall: 86cm,. 33¾in.

Considering the profusion of marble figures and busts carved by Andreoni, it is surprising that more is not known of this enterprising sculptor. Based in Rome, Andreoni sent works for exhibition as far as Glasgow (1888) and Berlin (1892) and is believed to have been active for a time in America (a file on him is in the Smithsonian Institution Library). The exposure established his international reputation. Andreoni specialised in historical and biblical subjects such as the present bust of Rebecca. His expertise with the chisel is evident here in the virtuoso handling of clothing, hair and jewelry, delighting in the richness of detail. Other historic subjects he treated included figures of a Pharisee (Sydney Museum), Francesco da Rimini, Messalina, the Blind Nidia and Hamlet (Bournemouth).

RELATED LITERATURE
Panzetta, vol.1, p.30; Vicario vol.1, p.29; Mackay, p.26