#51999 Italy

The bronze sculpture presents two figures in seated poses, positioned side-by-side and sharing a common base. Both women are depicted with a degree of realism characteristic of academic sculptural traditions. Their attire suggests a cultural context outside the Western European mainstream; headscarves, layered garments, and jewelry indicate an Eastern or North African origin.
The figure on the left holds a stringed instrument – likely a lute or oud – and appears to be playing it. Her posture is relaxed, with her arm extended as she plucks at the strings. The gaze is directed downwards, suggesting concentration or perhaps a moment of introspection. The details of her clothing are rendered with considerable care, revealing folds and textures that contribute to a sense of volume and realism.
The figure on the right holds a bird – possibly a dove – in her outstretched hand. Her expression appears more animated than that of the first woman; there is a hint of curiosity or perhaps even amusement in her eyes. The way she presents the bird suggests an interaction, a gesture of offering or release.
The shared base upon which both figures rest is ornamented with intricate carvings, adding to the overall richness and complexity of the work. The dark patina of the bronze lends a sense of age and gravitas to the sculpture.
Subtextually, the pairing of these two women invites consideration of themes related to music, nature, and cultural identity. The musician’s focus on her craft contrasts with the bird-bearers outward engagement. One might interpret this as a representation of contrasting approaches to life – internal reflection versus external interaction. The exoticized attire hints at an otherness, potentially reflecting Orientalist perspectives prevalent during the period in which the sculpture was created, while simultaneously celebrating aspects of non-Western cultures. The presence of both figures on a shared base suggests a connection or relationship between them, though the nature of that relationship remains ambiguous and open to interpretation.