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Pair of torch-bearing moors in carved, lacquered, and gilded wood, Sicily, early 19th century Measurements: cm H 164 x D 50 x W 50 Price: private negotiation Item accompanied by our certificate of authenticity This pair of carved and gilded wooden sculptures in the form of torch-bearing moors was made in Sicily in the early 19th century. On a carved and lacquered wooden base simulating a rocky complex, stand two similar and vaguely specular moors, holding torch-bearing cornucopias with one arm. The two figures wear footwear and armor with a kilt that seems to move thanks to the positioning of the legs, slightly bent. One figure supports the cornucopia with their right hand at the base and with their left hand holds it upwards, keeping their gaze forward, turning only slightly their head to their left. The other, however, keeps their left arm softly along their side while with their right hand raises the torch holder and turns their gaze upwards. The bodies of the figures, as well as the eyes and lips, but also the sculpture of the rocks, are lacquered, while some parts, such as the footwear, the kilts, the cuffs of the sleeves and the cornucopias are in mecca silver, simulating gold. The armor that dresses the bust is instead gilded, chased and decorated with raised elements in red lacquer that simulate coral decorations. The mecca gilding of the wood is a type of gilding performed on silver leaf so that it would assume the appearance and preciousness of gold leaf. Mecca is a paint with an ancient recipe that was jealously guarded in the workshops. It involves the use of sandarac gum and gamboge in alcohol, dragon's blood and other ingredients that, in mixture with each other, contribute to the different chromatic elements of the mecca. The pair of sculptures is very decorative and of valuable artistic quality. The two torch holders can be placed side by side, interspersed with other furnishings, or presented individually, even in the center of each room. They can in fact be proposed in entrances and corridors, living rooms and studies, bedrooms, both next to antique and modern furnishings. Their size allows them to be placed on the ground, or if desired, on stairs in a slightly raised position. It is also possible, by electrifying them and adding lampshades, to transform them into lamps. A conservative restoration will be carried out shortly.
Period: Second half of the 18th century