Marble sculpture, girl playing tennis, early 20th century
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This sculpture embodies many of the themes and distinctive characteristics of early twentieth-century art, a period in which artists experimented with new forms and subjects, often celebrating dynamism and movement. The use of Carrara marble, in addition to being a tribute to the classical sculptural tradition, gives the work an ethereal and lasting quality, suggesting a continuity between past and present. The choice to represent a young girl playing tennis is particularly significant. In the 1920s and 1930s, tennis was gaining popularity not only as a sport, but also as a symbol of a modern and sophisticated lifestyle. For women, in particular, tennis represented an opportunity to participate in an athletic activity in an acceptable social context, reflecting changes in gender roles and female participation in public life. The meticulous attention to details, such as the folds of the skirt and the dynamic pose, shows the artist's technical ability to capture movement and vitality, essential elements in the representation of sport. Although the absence of a signature leaves the artist's identity in the shadows, this anonymity adds an element of mystery that stimulates the imagination and curiosity of viewers. Of note is the gluing of a hand and the absence of a finger. This flaw does not diminish the beauty that the work exudes as a whole. In summary, this sculpture is not only a tribute to the game of tennis, but also a testimony to the progressive modernization of 20th century society, captured through the lens of classical art and fine sculptural craftsmanship.
ID: 1372-1729867549-107439