Grand Tour Bronze Reduction of Il Porcellino "Borghese Boar" Mounted on a Carved Alabaster Neoclassical Plinth
Italy, 19th Century

A finely cast Grand Tour bronze model of the celebrated Medici Boar, Il Porcellino, after the antique and attributed to an Italian workshop, circa 1850–1890. The boar is shown in a seated pose, crisply rendered with detailed surface texturing and a deep translucent brown-black patination typical of Florentine casting traditions. The subject derives from Pietro Tacca's 17th-century bronze fountain commissioned for Cosimo II de' Medici, itself based on a Hellenistic marble discovered in Rome in the 16th century. Reductions of this model were among the most sought-after souvenirs of the 19th-century Grand Tour.

The sculpture is raised on a separately made but period alabaster plinth carved in high relief with ribbon-tied garlands and floral festoons, resting on an oval molded base. The soft honeyed patina of the stone complements the dark bronze and enhances the neoclassical presentation.

Measurements (assembled): 13" H × 8.75" W × 5.25" D
Bronze: 7" H × 9" W × 4" D
Base: 6" H × 9" W × 5.25" D

An impressive desk, library, or mantelpiece object embodying the artistic spirit of the Grand Tour.


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good
Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses.

Dimensions:
Height: 13 in.
Width: 9 in.
Depth: 5.25 in.

Category: Sculpture
Origin: Italy
Materials: Alabaster, Bronze

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $61.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

International: No International Shipping for this auction.

Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.

Location: This item ships from West Palm Beach, FL

Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Good
Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses.