Object Description
A 19th century plaster relief plaque of the Virgin and Child by Brucciani & Co (signed). The 15th century Italian marble antique after which this plaque is based resides in London’s V&A Museum. While its maker is unknown, the design is in the style of Italian sculptor, Desiderio da Settignano (1428-1464), who’s work was influenced by the earlier Donatello (1386-1466).
The subject depicts an ecclesiastical scene of Virgin and Child, the Virgin with hands clasped in prayer towards the Child who grasps her wrist, before a pair of winged cherub masks in the sky.
Affixed with a hook for wall hanging to the top, this classical plaster plaque is ready for placement in your home, looking stunning on the walls of period townhouses and contemporary cottages alike.
Inscribed ‘2275 D. Brucciani & Co, London’ to the top left edge.
Brucciani & Co
In the 19th century, there was a growing trend for bronze and plaster copies of Europe’s finest and most famous artworks. While many businesses emerged in the industry, one of the most successful was established by the Italian-born Domenico Brucciani (1815 – 1880).
Around 1837, he established his Gallery of Casts in London’s Covent Garden. Such was his talent that in 1866, Brucciani succeeded in casting the 18-metre, 12th century facade of the cathedral at Santiago de Compostela, Spain, known as the Portico de la Gloria, or Porch of the Glory. This piece was so impressive that the V&A – then known as South Kensington Museum – created a designated segment of the museum to accommodate this monumental cast.