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$5,000
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Description
20" (51 cm.) Polychromed terra cotta shoulderhead, sculpted short windblown hair in deep strokes, dark complexion with ruddy cheeks, enamel eyes, shadowed stubble, firmly-set lips, tow-wrapped posable armature body, carved wooden lower arms and legs, carved painted brown wrinkled leggings and thick black shoes, wearing original costume comprising short pants and sleeveless vest of sturdy embossed tin-metal over linen shirt, and carrying Italian bagpipe (zampogna) with rich carving and silver tips. Excellent condition except chip to front of one legging. Neapolitan, mid/late 1700s, attributed to Francesco Celebrano, director of modelers of the Royal Porcelain Factory of Capodimonte (Naples) and sculptor of notable presepio figures under the direction of King Ferdinand IV. This particular example is remarkable for its artistry, fine state of preservation, unique costume and rare early zampogna accessory.