French school; second half of the 18th century.

French school; second half of the 18th century.
"Allegory of Africa".
Biscuit.
Presents faults.
Measurements: 27 x 19 x 13 cm.
Round sculpture made in biscuit porcelain. The piece presents a young lady elegantly dressed, sitting on an animal of mythological character. On the head of the animal there is a candle held by the young lady. Allegorical artistic works emerged from the Middle Ages with the intention of exalting the qualities and situations of life. This type of portraits were used to exalt the virtues of a particular character, such as kings, or recognized personalities. In fact, during the neoclassicism this trend was again in vogue. In this particular case it is not about a recognized character, but the painter wanted to reflect the African continent. This can be deduced from the facial features of the young protagonist.

The biscuit technique, used in this piece, offers a matte and very white finish to the pieces, began to be used in the mid-eighteenth century, especially in France, in the factory of Sèvres, and in Italy, in the Royal Factory of Capodimonte.