19th Century Italian, Polychrome Painted Metal Figure of a Boy with Basket

An expressive and beautifully rendered Italian statue in cast metal, likely spelter, dating to the late 19th century. This life-sized figure portrays a barefoot boy in a moment of pause, lighting a long pipe while balancing a woven basket over his shoulder. Richly painted in earthy, muted tones, the sculpture is full of character, from the delicate facial features and hand modeled garments to the naturalistic stance and textured surface.
The figure is supported by a rustic, tree-trunk-like base that includes a recessed vessel, possibly intended for use as a planter or umbrella stand. The paintwork, though worn in places, adds to the statue’s antique charm and enhances its lifelike quality. With a dense, cool to the touch surface and resonant tone, the piece suggests cast metal construction beneath the polychrome.

Place of Origin: Italy
Period: 20th Century
Dimensions: 17"W x 14.5"D x 42.5"H

Inventory Number: ZZ414
Location: JAA

Price: $ 4500