Sculpture depicting Mary Magdalene holding the body of Christ after the crucifixion - 18th century

Stunning 18th-century Italian polychromed terracotta sculpture from the Bolognese circle of master Angelo Gabriello Piò, Bologna 1690-1770, originating from the first quarter of the 18th century. Good age-related condition with minor restorations, a terracotta group with beautiful, original polychrome and impressive anatomy of Christ's body. This antique terracotta Pietà stands on a shaped base made of green and gilded poplar wood.

The Pietà by Michelangelo Buonarroti is one of the most famous Renaissance masterpieces and undoubtedly inspired this sculpture, which depicts Mary Magdalene holding the dead body of Christ after his crucifixion, death, and removal from the cross, before being placed in the tomb.

This baroque antique sculpture comes from a private collection in Milan. It has been restored near symbols of passion: cracks have been re-glued and reinforced from below, see enlarged photos. Two fingers of Christ’s left hand have been replaced.

Exclusive antique furniture and accessories can be an excellent idea for interior decoration. Today, there is an increasing number of enthusiasts for high-quality vintage items that carry character and soul. It’s a nod to history, craftsmanship, and the creation of classic and timeless furniture. There are many different styles in antique furniture, each with distinctive features.

Several key styles stand out among antique furniture. Eclectic furniture refers to the 19th century, marked by the Biedermeier style. Early in that century, you find antique neo-Gothic, Gothic, Rococo, Louis-Philippe style, and finally the English Victorian style. Toward the end of the century, these styles transition into pseudo-classicism, Renaissance, and Baroque.

Empire-style furniture dates from the late 18th to early 19th century, inspired by Napoleon’s reign. It features significant similarities and references to Roman and Greek ornamentation.
Neoclassical furniture, associated with Louis XVI, also strongly references ancient architecture. Noteworthy are antique products in Rococo and Louis XV styles. Next is Baroque, derived from the Portuguese word 'barocco'—meaning irregularly developed pearl. These were highly decorative pieces meant to radiate splendor and play a significant role in luxury. Materials were selectively chosen to emphasize the grandeur of these items.

Today, we observe how much the Baroque style influenced modern classic furniture, which is designed with a strong resemblance to the past. The Renaissance style, flourishing in the 15th and 16th centuries, also left a significant mark on furniture design. Renaissance furniture was quite heavy and robust, often using brown stains, moldings, strong bases, and reliefs. These products were quite distinctive but also introduced new possibilities, such as the construction of credenzas and broadly defined chest furniture. Mythology and ancient times inspired these designs, with supports and legs often taking animal forms.

Lion paws, eagle heads—these are common features in Renaissance style. Currently, many global brands reproduce furniture inspired by Italian and French artisans, reflecting admiration and respect for the history of the most beautiful Renaissance antiques. It’s important to remember that furniture styles varied by country, each with its unique character. This is especially crucial when searching for exclusive antiques suited to your interior.

The key aspect of original antique furniture is authenticity. Ultimately, this matters most to buyers, as the market is flooded with fakes. Luxury Products provides documentation confirming the product’s authenticity and accurate description with photos. We also offer access to art appraisers, historians, and experts from around the world.