Antique sculpture - bust of a man made of alabaster on a round wooden base

Virile Bust in Alabaster signed by Tabacchi. The figure of a man is depicted at half-length, elegantly dressed in 19th-century attire, with the signature Tabacchi on the back of the coat collar. The antique sculpture is made of alabaster and rests on a round base crafted from turned and ebonized wood.

Overall in good condition, it comes from a private Milanese residence. 

This figural sculpture dates from the first half of the 19th century and may be an early work by sculptor Odoardo Tabacchi, one of the most important Lombard sculptors of the 19th century, creator of some of the most significant monuments such as Cavour of Milan, Garibaldi and Frejus in Turin, Arnaldo da Brescia in Brescia, Michelangelo in Varese, and numerous tomb sculptures.

Beautiful antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for decorating our interiors. Currently, there is a growing number of enthusiasts for high-quality vintage items that possess distinct character and soul. This is a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the creation of classic and timeless furniture. There are many different styles in antique furniture, each with its own distinctive features.

Many styles characterize antique furniture, but a few are particularly prominent. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, dominated by the Biedermeier style. Early in the century, this includes neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and finally the English Victorian style. Toward the end of the century, these styles evolve into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Empire-style furniture dates from the period between the late 18th and early 19th centuries. It originated during Napoleon’s reign, characterized by significant similarities and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.

Neoclassical furniture reflects the Louis XVI style, which also draws heavily from ancient architecture. Notable and interesting are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. Next is Baroque, a term derived from the Portuguese 'barocco'—meaning an irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to radiate splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Unique materials were selectively used to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we can observe how much influence the Baroque style has had on modern classical furniture, which is designed with a strong resemblance to the historical period. An important style as well is Renaissance, which flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and left a significant mark on furniture-making art. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and massive, often using brown stains, cornices, sturdy bases, and reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also opened new possibilities, such as the construction of cupboards and broadly speaking, chest-type furniture. During this period, mythology and antiquity were also of interest, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion’s paws, eagle heads—these are common motifs in Renaissance-style furniture. Currently, many global brands reproduce such furniture, inspired by Italian and French creators. This reflects admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It’s important to remember that furniture production was perceived differently in each country, so each style had its own character. This is especially important when searching for an exclusive antique that suits your interior.

The key to high-end antique furniture is originality. This is ultimately crucial for buyers, as the market is flooded with fakes. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the authenticity of each item, matching the description and photos. We also have experts—art appraisers, historians, and specialists from around the world—available to assist you.