Statue of St Barbe in white marble, Italy, dated 1539

A rare depiction of Saint Barbara holding a tower in her right arm and resting on a high pedestal. The pedestal bears the inscription: "This work was commissioned by the Confraternity of Saint Barbara under the priory of Bartolomeo de Monte Sisto and Paolo de Suma Ripa, as well as Battista Samb Aldi and Antonio de Castello, in the year of grace 1539, the first day of February." Although the head of the statue is missing, it nevertheless exudes an impressive charisma and displays a very fine finish. The dedication likely refers to a monastery in central Italy. A fine example of Italian Renaissance sculpture!