Masterful Carrara Marble High Relief depicting St. George and the dragon, worked and carved by hand. Work inspired by the very famous painting by Andrea Mantegna dated 1460 and preserved in the Accademia galleries in Venice.
Legend has it that this saint killed the monster as the latter killed people with his breath, in return he asked citizens to convert and be baptized.
The knight saint is depicted standing dressed in the armor and with the spear broken for killing the dragon, which lies at his feet with the tip of the weapon stuck in his jaw. The saint leans out, cocking his head to the side, over a marble frame that borders the work. The saint and the dangling dragon, protruding beyond the frame, are thus projected toward the viewer's real world, according to an illusionism dear to Mantegna, especially in the years between the end of the Paduan period (by 1459) and the early years of the Mantuan period (from the following year). The garland at the top, composed of leaves and fruit, is also a typical motif of Squarcione's school, and thus harks back to the artist's youth as a pupil in his Paduan workshop.
The background shows a road that climbs a hill from the saint to a walled city.
The work comes from a private collection from the city of Venice, a collection that gathered beautiful marble works of saints and religious figures in a large hall. Sculpture always kept inside. In particular this sculpture was paired with another depicting St. Michael (they were often depicted together).
Of note is the attention to detail and detail, the majesty of the creation conveys strength and light.
The veining and patina of the marble is superb, a true Bomboniera.
Excellent workmanship and high quality craftsmanship.
Perfect proportions, sculpture of generous size and quite high weight, yet all this makes this masterpiece unique and exclusive.
Optimal when hung on a wall, although the work can also stand without supports.
Magnificent and spectacular throughout, classic representation of good fighting and overcoming evil.
It is in excellent overall condition, completely intact in all its parts.
If shipped, it will be shipped with sturdy wooden crate and appropriate packaging so as to ensure its complete integrity.
Shipping throughout Italy, Europe and Rest of the World at very low prices, secure and traceable.
Pickup at our warehouse also available.
Measurements:
- Length 85 cm
- Width 40 cm
- Base/maximum thickness 7 cm
Weight 70 kg approx.
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