Door Knocker with two Putti

Door Knocker with two Putti
North-Italy, (Venice), c. 1600
Bronze
Coat of Arms: the Malfatti family (Padova) or Sansedoni
Provenance: Adriano Ribolzi, (Paris – 2011)
H 44,5 x W 27 x D 12,5 cm (17½ x 10? x 5 in.)


The Characteristics of the faces of the putti and the modelling of the hair, closely resemble the work of the sculptor Niccolo Roccatagliata (b. 1560 – d. 1636). The tail of the fish (dolphin), ending in acanthus leaves, is a typical element in Venetian architectural decor.
The coat of arms, decorating the top of the door knocker has been identified as the weapons of the Malfatti family in Padova or the Sansedoni family in Siena.