Wood and ivory carving, Germany, 18th century

Height x width x depth: 25 x 10 x 7 cm. Total weight: 256 g

Antique sculpture in lime wood and elephant ivory (Elephas maximus Linnaeus, 1758 or Loxodonta africana Blumenbach, 1797), carved in the round to depict a beggar musician playing a popular wind instrument similar to a pipe or shawm. The face, hands and legs are carved in ivory, while the worn clothing and base are made of wood. The figure, barefoot and rendered with great realism and expressiveness, presents a strong colour contrast between the materials, which accentuates the dramatic intensity of the expression. In the context of the 18th century, representations of beggars also had a moral and symbolic value, linked to themes of charity, compassion and reflection on human frailty. The work can be attributed to the Tyrolean sculptor Simon Troger or his circle, known for their mastery in combining ivory and wood and for their extremely realistic rendering of figures. Troger, who worked in Innsbruck and Munich, was one of the most famous ivory sculptors of his time, supported by important European patrons. His work includes religious, mythological and popular subjects and is now preserved in prestigious international museums and collections.

This lot, accompanied by a CITES certificate and expertise issued by Ce.S.Ar Centro studi archeometici, is only available for sale with shipments within the European Union. (expertise Ce.S.Ar. 2025-219)