Antonio Frilli – Sculpted Alabaster Bust Of A Young Woman – Florence, 19th Century

An impressive and elegant bust of a young woman carved from alabaster, attributed to the Italian sculptor Antonio Frilli (c. 1860–1902), who was active in Florence during the second half of the 19th century.

This sculpture, of great finesse, depicts a young woman with a delicately modeled face, wearing a subtle smile, her eyes slightly downcast. She wears an elegant cross-collared gown, adorned with buttons and a small bouquet of flowers on her chest.

The work is particularly distinguished by the virtuosity of its execution, notably in the remarkable rendering of the headdress, richly embellished with openwork lace, ribbons, and meticulously carved motifs. The alabaster carving captures the lightness of the fabrics with great precision, creating a striking contrast with the soft contours of the face.

The reverse side, also intricately carved, reveals an elaborate hairstyle, curls of hair, and a hat with radiating folds, attesting to the care taken in the entire composition.

Antonio Frilli, an Italian sculptor based in Florence, founded a studio in 1860 specializing in marble and alabaster sculpture. His work, particularly prized by an international clientele, included portraits of women, allegorical figures, and decorative sculptures characterized by their technical refinement and virtuosity in the rendering of details, particularly lace and fabrics.

This sculpture is part of that late 19th-century Florentine tradition, both in the delicacy of the face and the richness of the ornamental work.

It rests on a quadrangular base and features an engraved inscription and signature on its lower part.

Delivery is possible; terms to be agreed upon with the buyer.