Luigi Melchiorre (1859–after 1908). “the Laughing Child.” Small Bronze Bust, Circa 1900.

A delightful small bronze bust with a beautiful brown patina, depicting “The Laughing Child,” a work by the Italian sculptor Luigi Melchiorre (1859–after 1908).

This charming sculpture depicts a young child with a particularly expressive face, plump cheeks, sparkling eyes, and a slightly parted mouth, mischievously sticking out his tongue in an expression full of joy and spontaneity.

The delicate modeling of the face, the fine rendering of the hair, and the liveliness of the expression attest to fine sculptural craftsmanship, capturing with great naturalness all the freshness and carefree spirit of childhood.

The bust rests on an elegant quadrangular pedestal, slightly flared at its base, whose simple lines perfectly highlight the facial expression.

Signature and stamp:

The sculpture bears the signature “L. Melchiorre,” engraved in bronze on the base, as well as the number 9688 and a circular stamp bearing the inscription “Bronze guaranteed to standard—L.V. Registered.”

The sculptor: Luigi Melchiorre

Born in 1859 in Valenza, Italy, Luigi Melchiorre studied at the Albertina Academy of Fine Arts in Turin. He continued his artistic training in Florence, then worked in Rome with the sculptor Giacomo Ginotti, before settling in Turin.

Active as an artist in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, he created both monumental sculptures and works of more modest dimensions.

He is particularly admired for his depictions of childhood, characterized by gentle modeling, natural poses, and remarkably expressive faces.

This charming little bronze is a fine example of his talent for capturing children’s expressions with sensitivity and realism.

Period: late 19th–early 20th century, circa 1900.

Artist: Luigi Melchiorre (1859–after 1908).

Material: bronze with a nuanced brown patina.

Signature: L. Melchiorre.

Markings: number 9688 and stamp “Bronze garanti au titre – L.V. Déposé.”

Dimensions:

• Height: 13 cm
• Base: 4 × 3.5 cm

A delightful little antique bronze, full of charm and character, particularly appealing for the quality of its modeling and the mischievous expression on this young child’s face.

Delivery or shipping available in France and worldwide, with careful packaging. Please contact us.