Cella Antiques

Description

A fine early 19th century French Empire period ormolu gilt bronze bust of the Apollo Belvedere on a Marbre Vert green marble base. Beautifully cast and chased example probably from an important Empire clock. The Apollo of the Belvedere, or the Pythian Apollo, is now thought to be a Roman copy of a lost bronze originally made between 350 and 325 BC by the Greek sculptor Leochares. Named after The Cortile del Belvedere at the Vatican Palace in Rome where it is displayed. Attractive early piece with an important provenance. France, circa 1810.
Provenance: From the collection of Gianni Versace, Villa Fontanelle Moltrasio. Sold Sotheby's 'Paintings, Furniture and Works of Art from the Collection of Gianni Versace', 19th March 2009, lot 259.