19th Century French Polychrome Plaster Figure of a Child After Donatello

$975

About

Charming and expressive, this antique plaster sculpture depicts a young girl standing in a playful pose while gently holding out the folds of her dress. Crafted in France circa 1880, the figure was modeled after a Renaissance work associated with the celebrated Florentine sculptor Donatello. Her softly rendered features, tightly curled hair, bare feet, and carefully articulated drapery give the composition a graceful and lifelike quality.

The sculpture is finished in a warm, patinated off-white tone with delicate blue accents along the neckline of the dress. It stands on an integral molded plinth raised over a contrasting dark painted base. A plaque on the front reads “Enfant de Donatello, Musée de Florence,” identifying the figure as a French museum-model interpretation of a Florentine sculpture attributed to Donatello.

Donatello, born Donato di Niccolò di Betto Bardi (circa 1386–1466), was among the most influential sculptors of the Italian Renaissance. Renowned for the naturalism, emotional depth, and technical innovation of his work, he produced sculptures in marble, bronze, wood, terracotta, and stucco.

The antique statue is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, with a richly aged surface and light wear consistent with its history.

Dimensions: 10.5″ W x 8″ D x 23.5″ H.

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