Antique Grand Tour Bronze Dancing Faun of Pompeii 12\" Italian Sculpture For Sale

The original Dancing Faun became one of the most admired bronzes excavated at Pompeii and inspired an important tradition of bronze reproductions produced in Naples for European and American collectors during the Grand Tour period and thereafter.

This example measures approximately 12 inches tall and weighs approximately 1,200 grams (2.65 lbs.).

The faun is depicted in his characteristic animated pose, balanced dynamically with arms raised, head turned upward, elaborate hair and small horns, with his short tail visible at the rear. The figure stands on a traditional stepped rectangular bronze base.

The sculpture displays an attractive naturally aged dark bronze surface with areas of green verdigris and oxidation. The underside is particularly interesting, retaining considerable aged patination and two old-style attachment points securing the figure to the base.

No signature or foundry mark has been located.

Condition: Very good overall antique/vintage condition with naturally occurring patina, oxidation, surface variation and wear consistent with age. There is a very small casting pinhole/void on the rear lower leg immediately above the ankle. It is difficult to notice without close examination and is shown in the photographs. It does not appear to affect the structural integrity of the figure.

The sculpture has not been polished or aggressively cleaned, preserving its existing surface and patina.

Approximate measurements:
Height: 12 inches
Weight: 1,200 grams / 2.65 lbs.

Subject: Dancing Faun of Pompeii
Material: Patinated bronze
Style: Classical / Greco-Roman / Grand Tour
Origin: Continental European / Italian style
Date: Exact age unknown; appears consistent with older Grand Tour-style production
Signed: No visible signature or foundry mark

Provenance: From a long-held family collection assembled in Europe during the mid-20th century. The owner\'s father was a U.S. diplomat stationed at various European posts, and the sculpture has remained in the family collection for decades.

The original ancient Dancing Faun was excavated at Pompeii in 1830 and is preserved in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples. Period Neapolitan foundries including Chiurazzi, Sabatino De Angelis and Giorgio Sommer became renowned for producing bronze reductions of antiquities for Grand Tour collectors. Documented museum examples demonstrate this important tradition of Neapolitan bronze reproduction.

This sculpture is offered as an antique/vintage bronze after the ancient Dancing Faun. It is not represented as an ancient Roman artifact, and no specific foundry attribution is being made.

I encourage you to make an offer.