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LOT 019

1880 - 1959
English

Marchesa Casati
bronze sculpture, circa 1918
11 1/2 x 13 3/4 x 10 in, 29.2 x 34.9 x 25.4 cm

Estimate: $12,000 - $16,000 CAD

Sold for: $28,125

Preview at: Heffel Toronto – 13 Hazelton Ave

PROVENANCE
Collection of Dr. Russell Brain, United Kingdom
By descent to Michael and Elizabeth Brain, Calgary

LITERATURE
Jacob Epstein, Let There Be Sculpture: The Autobiography of Jacob Epstein, 1942, page 87
Evelyn Silber, The Sculpture of Epstein, 1986, reproduced page 144, catalogue #95


Marchesa Casati was an Italian heiress, muse to the Italian Futurists and a patroness of the arts in the early twentieth century. She was a femme fatale whose eccentricities intrigued European society. Known for her sense of fashion, she was an inspiration for modern designers such as John Galliano and Alexander McQueen. Her home in Venice (where her parties were legendary) is now the location of the Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

Sir Jacob Epstein met Casati at a luncheon given by English sculptor Clare Sheridan. Intrigued by her striking appearance, he asked Casati to sit for him. He described the experience as follows: “We began the sittings and her Medusa-like head kept me busy until nightfall…The winter light had failed and I had many candles brought in. They formed a circle round my weird sitter with the fire in the grate piled high to give more light. The tireless Marchesa, with her over-large blood-veined eyes, sat with a basilisk stare.” In this compelling sculpture, Epstein has adeptly captured the larger-than-life personality of Casati.

Please note: this work is from an edition of 8 and is mounted to a base measuring 3 x 5 1/2 x 5 inches.


Estimate: $12,000 - $16,000 CAD

All prices are in Canadian Dollars


Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information posted, errors and omissions may occur. All bids are subject to our Terms and Conditions of Business. Bidders must ensure they have satisfied themselves with the condition of the Lot prior to bidding. Condition reports are available upon request.