European school, late 19th century-early 20th century.

European school, late 19th century-early 20th century.
"Infant bust".
Marble and alabaster.
Signed "R. SCALI".
It presents good general state of preservation, with superficial wear typical of its age.
Measurements: 38 cm (height).

The work represents a child with a smiling expression, wearing a cap and resolved by means of a delicate contrast between the white of the face and the grayish and translucent tones of the bust and clothing.

The piece responds to the taste for decorative sculpture of the late nineteenth century, especially appreciated in bourgeois interiors and private rooms. The soft modeling of the face, the inclination of the head and the restrained smile give the figure a gentle and sentimental character, typical of this type of production.

The combination of marble and alabaster makes it possible to play with the luminosity, the veins and the changes in tone of the material, visually enriching the work. Because of its technique, format and formal language, it is part of the European sculpture of the inter-century, intended for decorative collecting and idealized portraits of children.