Lot 64: An Italian 18th century polychromed terracotta figure of Saint Andrew in the manner of Giuseppe Sanmartino (Italian, 1715-1793)

in the manner of Giuseppe Sanmartino (Italian, 1715-1793)
the Saint represented near the X shaped cross, on a naturalistic terrasse, raised on a giltwood base, 63cm high (24.5" high).

The present lot evokes the oeuvre of Neapolitan artist Giuseppe Sanmartino who executed polychrome terracotta figures, well known for the realism of their pigmentation. His powerful sculptural style combined sentimental poses and expressive facial features. He primarily produced marble religious sculptures and was popular with the Bourbon court in Naples.

This representation of Saint Andrew is influenced by François Duquesnoy's (1597–1643) celebrated marble figure of Saint Andrew in St Peter's Basilica in Rome, completed between 1629 and 1633.