Statues And Fountains In Florence
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Statues and Fountains in Florence
Overview
During the late Renaissance, Florence experienced a surge in popularity for statues and fountains depicting contemporary figures rather than classical ones. This trend extended into the late 16th and early 17th centuries, showcasing the artistry and cultural shifts of the time.
The Legacy of Cioli
In 1599, the sculptor Valerio Cioli traveled to Carrara to acquire marble for four statues with matching fountains: two dwarfs (Morgante and Margutte) and two peasants (a digger and a vintager). Cioli passed away before completing the project, leaving it to his nephew, Simone Cioli, to finish the work, which he completed in 1606 and 1608.
The statues of the dwarfs were eventually lost, and the digger's statue remains in the Boboli Garden, though it has no connection to a fountain. The Vintage group, which features a peasant pouring grapes into a vat alongside a watching boy, still stands in the Boboli Garden at the end of a significant path. These figures, unconfined by architectural limitations, exemplify the baroque style, embracing the surrounding space freely.
Genre Sculpture in Florence
In the 16th century, Fratolino also witnessed the creation of statues featuring peasants in contemporary attire. Notably, the Fountain of Ammannati included figures in comic poses. Though these genre sculptures hold modest aesthetic appeal, they are historically significant for highlighting a shift towards naturalism in Florentine art, which traditionally leaned towards classicism.
Influences and Inspirations
The influence of Northern European fountains might have played a role in the emergence of genre themes in Florentine fountains. Valerio Cioli, known for his work on ancient statuary restoration, likely encountered genre-themed sculptures while in Rome. Such themes were prominent during the Hellenistic period, often attributed to the Alexandrian school.
Cioli’s familiarity with pieces like the Arrotino at the Uffizi, described by Cosimo I as "a peasant sharpening a knife," may have inspired his genre figures, such as peasants performing everyday tasks. His preference for using marble for these figures, despite the pictorial advantages of bronze, can be traced back to classical influences.
Classical fountains of the era often utilized neutral-toned, rough gray stones to harmonize with natural settings, making them preferable to marble for garden sculptures.
Conclusion
The statues and fountains of Florence from this period reflect a fascinating blend of tradition and innovation. As artists like Cioli embraced contemporary themes while drawing from classical inspiration, they created works that continue to capture the imagination and highlight the rich cultural history of the city.
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