Alfonso Canciani

ALFONSO CANCIANI (1863-1955).
"Le Sabreur", 1908.
Patinated bronze.
Signed and dated.
Measurements: 25 x 38 x 8 cm.

Alfonso Canciani was a sculptor of Italian origin who developed great part of his career in Vienna, within the artistic environment of the end of the XIX century and beginnings of the XX century influenced by the Viennese Secession and the Art Nouveau. Specializing in decorative bronze sculptures, he stood out for his elegant and dynamic figures inspired by allegorical, feminine, equestrian and sporting themes, such as tennis, cycling or fencing, much appreciated by the bourgeoisie of the Belle Époque. His work is characterized by refined modeling, great attention to movement and a balance between naturalism and decorative sophistication. Although he was not a monumental sculptor of great international fame, his pieces were widely distributed thanks to important European foundries and today are valued within modernist and early Art Deco decorative art.