Large Figurative Group In Capodimonte Porcelain, “partita A Carte” – The Card Game, Italy

This remarkable figurative group in polychrome Capodimonte porcelain, titled “Partita a Carte” (The Card Game), depicts a lively scene of great finesse: four figures gathered around a table playing cards.

The composition features three men and one woman seated around a wooden table, captured in the midst of the game. Playing cards, game pieces, and numerous small accessories enliven the table, while the figures’ gestures, facial expressions, and interactions lend the scene remarkable realism and a sense of narrative.

Entirely handcrafted and hand-painted, this group exemplifies the intricate modeling traditionally associated with Capodimonte porcelain. Particular care has been taken with the characters’ faces, hands, clothing, and expressions, as well as with the textures and details of the furniture and surrounding objects.

This sculpture follows the tradition of Italian genre groups depicting scenes from daily life, a field in which artists and sculptors such as Bruno Merli and Scapinello have particularly distinguished themselves. However, in the absence of a signature or manufacturer’s mark confirming the attribution, the work must be cataloged as belonging to the Capodimonte School / Italian School, rather than being attributed with certainty to any one artist.

This porcelain composition rests on an elegant hardwood base adorned with a metal plaque, which lends the group a heightened presence and makes it ready for display.

With its imposing dimensions, complex modeling, and expressiveness, “Partita a Carte” is an attractive collector’s piece and a fine example of the theatrical realism characteristic of 20th-century Italian decorative porcelain.

Origin:

Italy

Period:

20th century

Style/Tradition:

Capodimonte

Title:

Partita a Carte – The Card Game

Materials:

Hand-painted polychrome porcelain and solid wood base

Dimensions:

Height: 42 cm
Width: 35 cm
Depth: 30 cm

Condition:

Good vintage condition. Please refer to the photographs for a detailed assessment of the porcelain, its delicate applied elements, and the wooden base.

Keywords:
Capodimonte porcelain, Partita a Carte, The Card Game, Italian porcelain, Figurative group, Genre scene, Polychrome porcelain, Bruno Merli, Scapinello, Florin Antiques