1991 Taormina Italy Gaetano Marletta Signed Hand Carved Wood Folk Art Figure For Sale

1991 Taormina Italy Gaetano Marletta Hand-Carved Wooden Figure – Signed Sicilian Folk ArtLarge and highly detailed hand-carved wooden figure purchased in Taormina, Sicily, Italy in 1991.This piece came from my grandparents’ collection. According to our family history, they purchased it from an artist named Marletta Gaetano / Gaetano Marletta while visiting Taormina.The reverse bears handwritten identifying information including the artist’s name and “Taormina 1991.” The underside/base is additionally carved with large “MG” initials, providing further identification of the piece.The nearly 20-inch-tall sculpture depicts a bearded male figure with an expressive face, deeply carved hair and beard, detailed hands and extensively decorated clothing. The geometric and textural carving throughout the garment is particularly impressive.The front is extensively hand carved while the reverse has been intentionally left comparatively plain. A metal hanger is attached to the back for wall display.Measurements: Height approximately 19.6”; maximum width approximately 5.5”; depth approximately 3.75”. Weight approximately 1 lb 15.5 oz.Artist: Marletta Gaetano / Gaetano Marletta, based upon inscription and family provenance.
Location: Taormina, Sicily, Italy.
Date: 1991.
Material: Carved wood.
Markings: “MG” carved into base; artist/location/date information written on reverse.Condition: There is a noticeable chip/loss to the nose, clearly shown in the photographs. Additional small chips, scratches, scuffs, surface marks and other wear are present from age, handling and display. There are also remnants of old material/paint on portions of the reverse. The sculpture has not been restored or refinished.Please examine all photographs carefully, particularly the nose and other carved details, as the photographs form an important part of the condition description.An unusual piece of signed and dated Sicilian/Italian folk art with excellent family provenance and impressive display presence at nearly 20 inches tall.Sold as pictured.