This exceptional pair of Italian bronze and white marble busts of an African man and woman are the product of the work of C. Caccia (Italian, fl. late 19th century), and Henry Dasson (French, 1825-1896).
The bronzes and square bases, in Campan Grand Melange marble and mounted with ormolu, are signed 'Ch. Caccia 1883' and 'Henry Dasson, 1885' respectively. They come from the private collection of the late Sir Arthur Gilbert, who donated many a piece to the V&A, London.
The patinated bronze of the faces, expressively and meticulously cast, full of character, are complemented beautifully by the white marble cloaks and hoods, rendered to give the impression of real, soft, fabric. Little is known about the artist, but the superb detailing on display here and the fine combination of materials attests to a master craftsman, as does the fact that the works are mounted by Dasson, a very fine metalworker and bronzier of the late nineteenth century.
The pieces likewise complement each other beautifully, full of vitality and individuality, and make a fine sculptural and decorative pair of home accents, both of equal dimension: height 44cm, width 35cm, and depth 21cm.Â
Provenance-+
From the collection of the late Sir Arthur Gilbert