Late 19th Century Italian Alabaster and Marble Bust of a Young Woman

A finely carved wooden statue of a male saint, likely French, dating to the 19th century. This devotional figure is depicted in clerical robes with delicate facial features, inset glass eyes, and original polychrome and gilded finish. The sculpture is mounted on a circular painted and giltwood base with a faux marble effect, suggesting ecclesiastical or institutional use. The figure’s contemplative expression and naturalistic posture are rendered with care, highlighting the craftsmanship typical of the period. A surviving label beneath the base from Le Garde Meuble Public, Bedel & Cie., 18 Rue St Augustin, Paris offers provenance and suggests the piece was stored or handled professionally, possibly by a religious institution or estate. Details: Material: Hand-carved wood with polychrome paint and gilding Eyes: Glass inset Base: Painted and gilded wooden plinth with green faux-marble effect Origin: France Date: 19th century Dimensions: Approx. 22.5 inches high (including base) Label: “Le Garde Meuble Public, Bedel & Cie., 18 Rue St Augustin, Paris” (private furniture storage and moving company operating in Paris in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Specialized in the secure warehousing, transportation, and occasionally the auctioning or sale of fine furnishings, artworks, and personal belongings for wealthy clients, estates, or institutions.) Condition Report: Visible paint loss and surface wear throughout (notably to face, hands, and robes) Loss of finish and chipping consistent with age and devotional use No structural instability; overall form remains solid Loss to hands as seen in pictures Repair to right lower arm noted This is a well-executed and expressive antique religious statue...

An extraordinary example of early 19th-century Spanish silver craftsmanship, this sumptuously decorated atril (Bible/book stand) is attributed to the renowned silversmith Joseph Espe...