Description: This Grand Tour souvenir is a finely crafted miniature version of the statue of St. Peter, located in the heart of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The original statue, which this piece replicates, is one of the most famous and revered works in Christian art and is thought to date back to the 13th century, attributed to the sculptor Arnolfo di Cambio. Seated on a grand throne, St. Peter is depicted holding the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven in one hand while raising the other in blessing, a pose deeply symbolic of his role as the first Pope and the gatekeeper of the faith. The statue in the Basilica has become an object of pilgrimage for centuries. Its bronze toes have been worn smooth by the countless touches of pilgrims seeking blessings. This tradition reflects the deep veneration held for St. Peter, the Apostle who is regarded as the foundation of the Catholic Church. This miniature version, dating to circa 1880, was created as a Grand Tour souvenir—a memento collected by wealthy travelers of the 19th century who visited the cultural capitals of Europe, particularly Italy, to immerse themselves in classical art, history, and architecture. The Grand Tour itself was considered an essential educational experience for aristocrats and scholars, and bringing home exquisite replicas like this statue was a way of capturing the essence of Rome's grandeur and cultural significance. The statue stands at 9.75 inches high, with a hand-carved marble chair that replicates the detailed ornamentation seen in the original Basilica version. The bronze figure of St. Peter is incredibly lifelike, with high-relief details that give depth and character to his features and flowing robes. The marble base is particularly impressive, set with specimen marble panels in different colors, showcasing a sophisticated touch typical of Grand Tour pieces. This type of multicolored marble inlay speaks to the attention to detail and luxurious appeal that characterized fine souvenirs of the era. At 3.5 inches wide and deep, the proportions of this piece offer a compact but commanding presence, and its 6-pound weight adds to its sense of quality and craftsmanship. Good antique condition with light surface wear, please review the photo for further condition assessment. Such pieces were often displayed in libraries or salons of European homes, serving as both decorative objects and reminders of the cultural importance of the places visited. The intricate detailing of the bronze St. Peter, combined with the elegantly carved marble throne and base, make this a rare and stunning collectible. It embodies the romanticism and intellectual spirit of the Grand Tour, offering a tangible connection to one of the most significant monuments in Christian art history. Shipping includes signature delivery service. Check out our other antique listings.
Price: 1800 USD
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
End Time: 2024-12-16T01:24:32.000Z
Shipping Cost: 60 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Religion: Christianity
Material: Bronze
Country/Region of Manufacture: Italy
Handmade: Yes
Figure: Saints
