Antique Alabaster Bust of a Woman

A beautifully carved antique alabaster bust of a young woman in Renaissance dress, her downcast eyes and serene expression evoking the classic "Beatrice" subject so popular with Italian sculptors of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Her hair is center-parted beneath a delicately carved fillet headband, and she wears a simple square-necked bodice. The bust is mounted on a shaped, veined marble socle base and is marked Italy on the bottom. 

Pieces like this were carved by skilled workshops in Italy, often as souvenirs for travelers on the Grand Tour, drawing inspiration from Renaissance portrait busts. A striking piece for a mantel, bookshelf, or console table, and shown beautifully displayed atop a stack of antique books. 

The bust measures 7 1/2 inches wide and 7 inches tall. It is in overall good condition with only minor surface wear and flea bites, consistent with age. Please see photos. 

Please note that items are antique or vintage and may present signs of wear or use. All sales are final.