Pair Of 19th-century Italian Bronzes (from The “grand Tour” Period): Putti With A Goose And A Dolphin

A highly decorative pair of Italian bronze sculptures, dating from the late 19th century and created in the spirit of the “Grand Tour.” They depict two charming classical figures: Cupid with a goose and an *amorino* (little cupid) with a dolphin.

Finely cast in bronze and featuring a rich, dark patina, the two sculptures rest on imposing marble bases, forming a harmonious ensemble inspired by the artistic traditions of Classical Antiquity and the Italian Renaissance.

The first sculpture depicts a young Cupid (or putto) embracing a goose; this playful composition combines the innocence of childhood with the expressive naturalism characteristic of classical decorative sculpture.

The second figure depicts an *amorino* carrying a dolphin on his shoulder, a subject deeply rooted in Greco-Roman mythology and Renaissance sculpture. This composition recalls the famous tradition of the “Putto with a Dolphin,” associated in particular with the Florentine Renaissance sculptor Andrea del Verrocchio (1435–1488).

These two sculptures reflect the refined artistic vocabulary of the Italian “Grand Tour” tradition, a period during which major bronze foundries produced high-quality interpretations of classical and Renaissance masterpieces, intended for aristocratic travelers, collectors, and distinguished European interiors.

The figures feature carefully modeled anatomy, expressive gestures, and finely rendered details. Their beautiful dark patina highlights the sculptural modeling, while the marble bases provide an elegant contrast and a solid architectural foundation.

The tradition of “Grand Tour” bronzes flourished particularly in artistic centers such as Naples, Rome, and Florence, where specialized foundries gained international renown for their decorative bronzes inspired by ancient and Renaissance models.

With their imposing height of 60 cm, these sculptures possess a remarkable decorative presence; they are ideal for display on a mantelpiece, console table, bookcase, or architectural pedestals.

A refined pair highly prized by collectors, dating from the late 19th century (“Grand Tour” period), combining classical mythology, the charm of childhood, and the timeless elegance of Italian sculptural craftsmanship.

Sold as a pair. Origin

Italy

Period

Late 19th century, circa 1880–1900

Style

Grand Tour / Neoclassicism

Subjects

Cupid or putto with agoose

Amorino or putto with a dolphin

Materials

Cast bronze with a dark patina and marble bases

Dimensions (each)

Height: 60 cm

Width: 35 cm

Depth: 30 cm

Condition

Good condition for their age, consistent with the pieces’ age. The bronze surfaces retain a beautiful dark patina with natural variations in color and slight signs of wear. The marble bases may show slight imperfections due to age. Please examine the photographs carefully for a detailed assessment of the condition.

Keywords: Italian Grand Tour, bronze putti, Cupid with a goose, Amorino with a dolphin, 19th-century Italian bronze, classical sculpture, Neoclassicism, Neo-Renaissance style, Verrocchio style, bronze with dark patina, marble bases, mythological sculpture, Florin Antiques.