19th-century Italian Alabaster Sculpture (from The Grand Tour Period) Depicting The Young Moza

A 19th-century Italian alabaster sculpture, magnificently executed and characteristic of the Grand Tour period, depicting Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart as a child playing the violin; it bears the signature “A. Plieri, Florence.”

This remarkable work stands out for the superb quality of its carving, its refined naturalism, and its extraordinary attention to detail, reflecting the great tradition of 19th-century Florentine decorative sculpture.

The composition depicts the young prodigy Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756–1791), one of the greatest composers in the history of Western classical music, during his childhood.

Holding his violin, the young Mozart is depicted with an endearing blend of innocence and concentration, capturing both the charm of childhood and the exceptional musical talent that would cement his legacy.

Exceptional Florentine craftsmanship

Carved from alabaster, the sculpture demonstrates remarkable technical mastery.

The delicate modeling of the child’s features, the meticulous rendering of the clothing, and the careful treatment of the violin reveal the sculptor’s exceptional mastery of the material.

The artist’s ability to create subtle transitions between polished surfaces and finely chiseled details is particularly impressive; it lends the figure remarkable softness, movement, and vitality.

The natural translucency and warm luminosity of the alabaster further enhance the sculpture’s refined appearance, lending it a striking realism.

The Italian Tradition of the Grand Tour

In the 19th century, Florence became a major center for the production of high-quality marble and alabaster sculptures intended for distinguished European and international collectors.

Florentine workshops were particularly admired for their technical precision and their interpretations of historical, musical, literary, and classical subjects.

This sculpture is part of this prestigious tradition of the Italian Grand Tour, combining a famous cultural subject with the exceptional craftsmanship characteristic of Florentine sculpture.

Signature and Condition

The sculpture bears the signature “A. Plieri, Florence,” attesting to its connection to a Florentine sculptor or workshop. The artist’s precise identity has not been independently established. The work is in perfect condition, a characteristic particularly prized for an antique alabaster sculpture of such complexity and age.

Standing 75 cm tall, it exudes an impressive sculptural presence, making it ideal for a prestigious collection, a music room, a library, or an elegant classical interior.

An exceptional and highly decorative 19th-century Florentine alabaster sculpture, combining the timeless appeal of Mozart, the elegance of Italian “Grand Tour” art, and remarkable sculptural mastery.

Origin

Florence, Italy

Period

19th century

Artist / Signature

Signed “A. Plieri, Florence.” Artist otherwise unidentified.

Style

Grand Tour / Romanticism / Naturalism

Subject

The young Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart playing the violin

Materials

Carved alabaster

Dimensions

Height: 75 cm (29.5 inches)

Width: 29 cm (11.4 inches)

Depth: 20 cm (7.9 inches)

Condition

Excellent condition. According to the owner, the sculpture is in perfect condition, with no reported damage or restoration.

Keywords: Young Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Mozart playing the violin, Italian Grand Tour, Florentine alabaster, 19th-century Italian sculpture, A. Plieri Florence, Antique alabaster sculpture, Sculpture of a child musician, Classical music sculpture, Romantic sculpture, Florin Antiques.