marble bust

Object Type:

• Hand-carved marble bust sculpture of a young woman
• Mounted on an octagonal green marble base

Description and Features:

• Material: Appears to be alabaster or light marble based on the visible veining, slight translucence, and warm beige hue. The base appears to be green serpentine or verdite marble.
• Size: Approx. 9" H x 8" W x 5" D
• Weight: ~10 lbs
• Finish: Smooth with delicately carved facial features, flowing hair, and a stylized robe or garment with incised and raised detailing. A small relief motif (likely a stylized tree or floral form) is present on the bodice.
• Origin: Unsigned. No maker’s mark, stamp, or label is visible.

Stylistic Assessment:

This bust is sculpted in a Romantic or Neoclassical Revival style, which gained popularity in late 19th to early 20th century decorative arts. The soft features, serene expression, and detailed clothing suggest a European origin, possibly Italian or French, where such alabaster busts were often sold as souvenirs or decor during the Grand Tour era or later export waves (ca. 1880–1930).

The facial stylization and tied hair suggest a sentimental or allegorical representation, possibly depicting a maiden or muse figure, a common theme in Victorian and Edwardian sculpture.

Condition:

• Overall Condition: Good
• No major chips or cracks visible in the bust itself
• Some light scuffing and mineral deposits, consistent with age
• One segment of the green marble base shows a visible separation line, possibly a natural fissure or old repair
• No visible restoration work

Historical Context:

Busts of this nature were commonly produced in Carrara (Italy) and parts of France and Spain from the late 19th century onward. Alabaster and softer marbles were often chosen for small-scale busts due to their ease of carving and warm finish. These pieces were frequently exported to Europe and North America as fine decorative items or collected by wealthy travelers.

Estimated Market Value (as of 2025):

Venue

Value Range (USD)

General Antiques Dealer

$150 – $300

Specialty Auction (Sculpture)

$250 – $500

Retail (Vintage Decor)

$350 – $600+

If Artist Identified

$500 – $1,500+ (varies widely)

Comparable Sales:

• Similar unsigned Italian marble/alabaster busts from ca. 1900–1930 sell for $200–600, especially with intact bases and appealing stylization.
• Signed or documented examples by sculptors like Giovanni Brogi, Affortunato Gory, or A. Cipriani often exceed $1,000.

Recommendations:

• 🔍 Professional Appraisal: Advised if you intend to insure, sell in a fine art auction, or confirm artist attribution. Look for a UV signature or engraving under the base.
• 🧼 Cleaning: Only with a dry cloth or by a professional conservator—avoid any liquid cleaners that might stain or etch the surface.
• 📸 If listing for sale, photograph in strong natural light from multiple angles and note the material (likely alabaster or marble) clearly.

Summary:

This is a well-crafted antique or early 20th-century marble/alabaster bust, most likely European, in the Neoclassical or Romantic style. It retains solid aesthetic and collector value despite being unsigned, with additional appeal due to its quality craftsmanship and preserved condition. It would be especially attractive to collectors of Victorian decor, Grand Tour sculpture, or classical portraiture.