AFTER GIAMBOLOGNA, LATE 19TH/EARLY 20TH CENTURY

The original model upon which the present lot is based is Giambologna's Groticella Venus, probably carved for Francesco de Medici circa 1570. The Venus, presently in Buontalenti's grotto in the Boboli Gardens, Florence, was revered by many and was even referred to as the most perfect female nude ever carved. It was so influential that it is believed to inspire the allegorical female figure in his group of Florence triumphant over Pisa circa 1575, which was commissioned on the occasion of Francesco de Medici's wedding to Joanna of Austria.