Bidspirit auction | Composition with shell, Italy, 19th

Composition with shell, Italy, 19th century - Height x width x depth: 23.5 x 17.5 x 7.5 cm Haliotis Midae, originating from South Africa, characterised by its pearly inner surface, mounted on a marble base. The shell, positioned vertically, acts as a backdrop and natural frame for the sculptural scene, creating an evocative effect of depth and light. In front of the shell is a gilded bronze composition depicting two cherubs. One of the cherubs, reclining on a marble base with soft, sculpted lines, looks up; the other seems to emerge from inside the shell, adorned with garlands of flowers around his body, stretching one arm upwards and holding a baroque pearl. On the back of the base is the inscription “Aug Mariani”. Provenance: Count Luigi Rigi Luperti collection.