Wooden Sculpture Depicting Two Children, Attributed To Valentino Panciera Besarel (1829–1902)

Provenance

Italian plant stand attributed to Valentino Panciera, known as Besarel (1829–1902). Born into a family of woodcarvers from the Zoldo Valley, this artist worked primarily in Venice. His work follows the Italian tradition of decorative sculpture, combining figurative work with ornamentation and furniture design.

Description

The piece depicts two children brought together in a lively vertical composition. The lower figure, standing on a terrace adorned with rock and plant motifs, supports his companion, who raises one arm toward the large bowl at the top. Their intertwined gestures lend the group an upward movement, while the different orientations of their faces allow the work to be interpreted from multiple angles.

The facial features are individualized by the modeling of the cheeks, the outline of the eyelids, and the slightly parted mouths. The hair, deeply carved into wavy locks, frames the faces. Particular attention is paid to the hands, feet, and clothing accessories. The lower figure’s breeches feature a dense network of incisions evoking fabric, edged with gold fillets. An ornament also enhanced with gilding highlights the neckline of the upper figure.

The flared bowl features a scalloped rim and an exterior decoration with broad, undulating lines. The chamfered pedestal is embellished with gilded fluting, floral garlands, foliage, and volute consoles. Its successive moldings structure the lower section.

Technique and Materials

Wood carved in the round for the figures, worked in high and low relief for the ornamentation, with a brown finish that reveals the wood grain. The smooth surfaces of the bodies contrast with the textures of the clothing and the cutouts of the foliage. Gilded highlights punctuate the decoration. The piece consists of two distinct parts, the pedestal and the figurative group; the upper section can pivot.

Date

Italy, late 19th century. The dynamic figurative composition, the volutes, and the abundance of plant motifs reflect the historicist taste of this period, drawing on Baroque references.

Condition

The surfaces show scuffing, scratches, and localized wear on the finish, particularly on the reliefs, the main bodies, and the base. The top surface of the bowl shows significant signs of use. Wear is also visible on the gilded highlights.

Use and Purpose

Designed as an indoor plant stand, this piece also possesses a sculptural presence in its own right. It can be placed in an entryway, living room, or gallery, with sufficient space to appreciate the silhouette and detail of the sculpture.

Dimensions

height - 196 cm
width - 52 cm
depth - 52 cm