Large Bronze Sculpture of Mercury after Giambologna, Cast by Alessandro Nelli

Rome, Italy, late 19th century, patinated bronze, stamped "FOND. / A. NELLI / ROMA" to the integral socle, modeled after the original by Giambologna (Flemish / Italian, 1529-1608), mounted to a deep crimson marble and black slate plinth.

Bronze 42 in.; dimensions with base 47 1/2 x 24 x 12 in.

The Estate of the late Dr. William "Bill" Webb Johnston and Mr. Charles "Chuck" Raymond West, Hillsborough, NC

Alessandro Nelli was born in Rome on 28th January 1842. As a young boy he studied for 4 years under the bronze founder Antonio Messina. Between 1880 and 1900, the Nelli Foundry was one of the most successful foundries in Rome. Situated at 43, Via Luciano Manara, Rome, the facility covered an area of some 5000 square metres. Nelli also had 2 retail outlets in Rome, one at 139, 140 and 140A Via del Babuino, and the other at 58, Via Santa Chiara.

Minor areas of rubbing to the patina; cracks to the marble and some edge chipping to the slate.