Lot number 21 - Auction 165
ITALIAN SCULPTOR AND 'F. BEST' BUST OF A CHILD AND HEAD OF A SATYR

ITALIAN SCULPTOR AND 'F. BEST'
Active 17th/18th century and c. 1900
BUST OF A CHILD AND HEAD OF A SATYR

Probably Rome and Germany

Carrara marble, sculpted in the round, each on a pedestal. Total height 46/44 cm, width 23/26 cm, depth 21/15 cm. Bust of a child in the manner of François Duquesnoy (1597–1643); head of a satyr signed 'F. Best' on the side (likely Fritz Best, 1864–1942). An interesting ensemble comprising two marble sculptures from different periods. The expressively modeled satyr head displays the blend of human and animal features characteristic of ancient mythology and alludes to Dionysian imagery. Its powerful physiognomy and dynamic rendering of hair and beard lend the sculpture a striking presence. The signature "F. Best" on the side suggests an attribution to the German sculptor Fritz Best, whose works frequently explore themes from antiquity and mythology. Stylistically, the bust of the child follows the tradition of the Flemish sculptor François Duquesnoy, a leading figure of the Classical Baroque in 17th-century Rome. His depictions of putti and children are distinguished by a remarkable naturalism, softness, and ideal beauty. Condition: old restoration, weathered surface; the child's bust has fractures.