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Vintage Italian A. Santini “Laocoonte” sculpture, depicting the famous classical scene of Laocoön and His Sons struggling against the serpents.
This highly detailed figural sculpture was produced in Italy by A. Santini and is modeled after the celebrated ancient Greco-Roman Laocoön sculptural group. The piece features Laocoön at the center with his two sons surrounded and entwined by serpents, with extensive detail throughout the figures, anatomy, drapery and snakes.
The front of the sculpture is impressed “LAOCOONTE.” The reverse is marked “A. SANTINI – ITALY.” The underside of the original black stone base retains a foil label reading “SCULPTOR A. SANTINI – MADE IN ITALY” as well as an Eleganza Ltd., Seattle retailer/importer label.
The ivory-colored sculpture appears to be Santini's characteristic marble/alabaster powder and resin composite, often referred to as bonded or reconstituted marble, and originally sits upon a separate polished black marble/stone base with white veining.
Condition:
Good vintage pre-owned condition with age-related wear.
The sculpture itself appears remarkably complete considering the intricate design and numerous projecting arms, hands, feet, figures and serpents. No major missing sections or significant breaks were observed during inspection.
Important:
The sculpture has separated from its black marble base due to failure of the original aged adhesive. Both the sculpture and original marble base are included. Original adhesive residue remains visible on the underside of the sculpture and on the corresponding area of the marble base.
The sculpture has intentionally not been re-glued or otherwise repaired, allowing the next owner to choose whether and how they wish to remount it.
Additional condition includes:
Light surface dirt and age-related discoloration in recessed areas
Minor gray/green surface marks in several areas
Light scratches and surface wear to the black marble base
Adhesive residue where the two pieces were originally joined
Original Santini and Eleganza labels remain present underneath
Please review all photographs carefully, including close-ups of the markings, labels, separated mounting surfaces and condition. Photos are considered part of the description.
Approximate Measurements:
Height: Approximately 11.5 inches
Width: Approximately 6–6.5 inches
Black marble base: Approximately 6 inches wide
Measurements are approximate; please see ruler photographs for additional scale.
A striking vintage Italian classical sculpture with excellent display presence and strong identification through its original Santini markings and labels.
