Giltwood and Wrought Iron Cage Chandelier – Italy, Late 18th Century

A large, stately cage-style chandelier from late 18th-century Italy. Built around a central shaft of carved, gold-leafed wood retaining its original patina, the chandelier is distinguished by the refinement of its wrought iron structure. Sinuous metal arms with a patinated finish sweep upward in elegant scrolls, creating an airy, highly decorative cage form.

Virgin and Child, circle of Guido Reni (1575–1642), 17th-century Italy

This delicate Baroque cabinet painting stands firmly within the tradition of the 17th-century Bolognese School, reflecting the immense influence of its leading figure, Guido Reni. The work embodies the master’s aesthetic ideals: the Virgin’s face with its perfect oval shape and alabaster complexion, her gently lowered eyelids conveying a sense of melancholy, and her hair swept up and held simply by a diaphanous veil.

 

Dog Seated on Its Cushion

Charming polychrome glazed terracotta sculpture depicting a dog seated on an elegant blue cushion adorned with a gilt trim. The sculpture displays a remarkable attention to realism, as evidenced by the finely modelled fur and the particularly lifelike expression of the animal. The flowing treatment of the coat lends the composition a natural sense of movement and vitality. The dog wears a delicate yellow collar, emphasizing its domestic character while adding a subtle touch of colour to this decorative piece.

19th Century Doll

Elegant French fashion doll dating from the second half of the 19th century, featuring a polychrome papier-mâché head with finely hand-painted facial details. Its expressive face is enhanced by large fixed eyes and an open mouth revealing two small teeth, a characteristic feature of high-quality French dolls of the period. The body is fully leather-covered with articulated limbs, allowing for remarkable flexibility and posing. Offered without clothing, this doll is a fine collector’s piece. It recalls the productions of the great French doll makers of the late 19th century, although no firm attribution can be made in the absence of a maker’s mark.

Italian *Capipote*, early 19th century

*Capipote* This term, of Catalan origin, literally means “head and foot” (*cap i pota*) and perfectly describes the very structure of this type of religious sculpture. The Virgin’s head, hands, and feet are finely carved and polychromed, while the body consists of a simplified torso extending into an original blue gown; the figure is designed as a mannequin intended to be dressed in rich garments and ornaments suited to various liturgical feasts.