Lot 92: Attributed to Odoardo Tabacchi , Italian (Valganna 1831 - Milano 1905) UN ANGELO white marble, raised on a pedestal with the arms of Savoy

white marble, raised on a pedestal with the arms of Savoy

measurements the figure 59 1/2 in.; the base 24 3/4 in. alternate measurements 151 cm; 63 cm

V. Vicario vol. 2, pp. 1005-1014A. Panzetta vol. 2, p. 262M. de Micheli pp. 137-140V. Terraroli p. 215

Although unsigned, the present outstanding marble of a seated angel can be securely attributed to Tabacchi on the basis of its stylistic affinities with one of his seminal compositions Ugo Foscolo after the treaty of Campoformio (1867, Galleria d'Arte Moderna, Rome). A work from Tabacchi's early maturity, Foscolo is shown seated with an intense expression reflecting the magnitude of his concern over the treaty. The deeply set eyes, straight nose, broad forehead, firm cheeks and pouting lips are identical in the fasces of Foscolo and the present angel. In addition, the long expressive fingers are utilized in both compositions to emphasize the strong emotion of the subject matter. Moreover, the present Seated Angel epitomizes Tabacchi's technical virtuosity in handling marble. Vicario and Terraroli both comment on Tabacchi's preference for highly polished skin surfaces which is perfectly realized in the Seated Angel. This soft approach to skin is contrasted by a highly textured treatment in the drapery, hair and whings which creates great drama and realistic detail. The arms which decorate the cartouche on the elaborately carved base can be identified with the Royal House of Savoy. It is important to note in connection with Tabacchi's royal commissions that he executed a bust of Amedeo of Savoy for the Palazzo del Municipio in Moncarlieri. Tabacchi seems to have been fascinated by the theme of angels. He executed Angel of Justice and a Guardian Angel for the Ponti di Gallarate mausoleum in Varese. The context of the present Seated Angel is unclear, but the presence of the arms of Savoy indicates a royal commission of some importance. For many international admirers of Italian nineteenth century sculpture today, Odoardo Tabacchi's fame is largely identified with his novel statue of a young woman about to dive into the water, known as La Tuffolina. The woman wears a modern (for 1877 at least) one piece swimming costume and with one leg slightly in front she purposefully holds her hands together above her head and leans forward about to take the plunge. Vaguely amusing and certainly technically accomplished, La Tuffolina is, however, not typical of Tabacchi's prestigious oeuvre.