"Venetian Moors"
XIX secolo
Venetian Moors sculptures embody Venice’s rich cultural tradition tied to trade and the East. Depicting Africans or Middle Easterners, they gained popularity in the Baroque era, particularly through Andrea Brustolon, a sculptor and woodcarver who created masterpieces like the Venier set at Ca’ Rezzonico museum. In the 19th century, during the neo-Baroque, Moors saw a revival: lavish paired sculptures adorned historic palazzo interiors. Figures in exotic costumes with turbans, often holding candelabras, reflected orientalism and eclecticism. The pastiglia technique mimicked fabric textures. Workshops of Valentino Besarel, Vincenzo Cadorin, and the Sarfatti firm produced such works. Moors symbolized wealth and cosmopolitanism, highlighting their owners’ status. Similar pieces are housed in the Museo d’Arti Applicate of the Castello Sforzesco. These sculptures vividly showcase Venetian art, blending luxury, exoticism, and craftsmanship.
