Venus
Venus Removing Her Sandals
Fonderia Giorgio Sommer, Napoli
Late 19th Century
Patinated Bronze
7 inches high
A charming and highly collectible bronze reduction depicting Venus Removing Her Sandals, produced by the venerable Fonderia Giorgio Sommer of Naples in the late nineteenth century. Inscribed “Giorgio Sommer, Napoli” to the integral base, this sculpture embodies the refined craftsmanship and classical sensibility that made Sommer one of the most respected names in Grand Tour bronzes.
Capturing a fleeting and intimate moment, Venus pauses gracefully as she bends to remove her sandal. The composition is remarkable for its balance and elegance, transforming an everyday gesture into an image of timeless beauty. The subtle contrapposto stance, delicately lowered gaze, and fluid contours of the figure create a sense of quiet movement and naturalism that recalls the finest sculptures of antiquity.
Though modest in scale, the work displays exceptional attention to detail. The figure is beautifully modeled, with crisp definition throughout the hair, anatomy, and drapery-inspired forms. Particularly attractive is the richly decorated flared base, adorned with finely cast palmette ornament derived from classical architectural motifs. The deep, nuanced patina further enhances the sculptural quality of the piece and speaks to the high standards associated with the Sommer foundry.
Founded by the celebrated photographer, publisher, and entrepreneur Giorgio Sommer, the Naples workshop became renowned for producing museum-quality reductions of the most admired sculptures discovered at Pompeii and Herculaneum, allowing Grand Tour travelers to bring the beauty of the ancient world into their homes.
Elegant, scholarly, and richly evocative of the classical tradition, this rare desktop bronze possesses a presence far beyond its size and serves as a sophisticated accent for a library, desk, vitrine, or curated collection of Grand Tour objects.
Inventory #Venus
Price $1,450
Venus Removing Her Sandals
