Bidspirit auction | A PAIR OF DANTE ALIGHIERI

A PAIR OF DANTE ALIGHIERI BRONZE BUST BOOKENDS, ITALIAN OR FRENCH, LATE 19TH TO EARLY 20TH CENTURY - A finely cast pair of patinated bronze busts depicting Dante Alighieri, each shown wearing his characteristic cap with ear flaps, the features rendered in a stern, contemplative expression. The shoulders are inscribed ”DANTE, ” identifying the subject, and the modeling reflects the historicizing taste of the late 19th-century revival of literary figures. Each bust is set within a shaped wooden support of warm-toned hardwood, forming functional bookends. The contrast between the dark bronze patina and the polished wood base creates a visually balanced and decorative composition. The reverse of each figure is fully modeled, allowing the pair to be displayed either as bookends or as sculptural objects in the round. Such representations of Dante were popular in Europe during the 19th century, particularly in Italy and France, reflecting renewed scholarly and artistic interest in the author of the Divine Comedy. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All lots are sold ”as-is”, refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions offers in-house shipping. In case we can not accommodate a shipping request, a list of additional shippers will be provided. Dimensions: H: 7 in., (17.8 cm.); D: 3 1/2 in., (8.9 cm.) Condition: Good overall condition. Minor surface wear to the bronze with areas of light rubbing and oxidation.