Opportunity to Preserve a Renaissance Treasure
Galleries and museums across the United Kingdom are being presented with a unique opportunity to safeguard a remarkable Renaissance masterpiece, Antico’s Seated Nymph. The UK Government has enacted a temporary export ban on this exquisite sculpture, allowing institutions to gather the necessary funds to retain this significant work for public access.
The sculpture, valued at £4.6 million, has been cast over five centuries ago and features intricate details such as mercury-gilded hair and drapery. The artistry of its creator, Pier Jacopo Alari Bonacolsi—commonly known as Antico—has earned him a distinguished reputation, with the Seated Nymph widely regarded as one of his most exceptional works.
Deadline Approaches for Potential Buyers
With a deadline set for 17 December, galleries and institutions are urged to act swiftly to secure the necessary funding to purchase the sculpture and ensure it remains on display in the UK. This diminutive figure, standing just under 20 centimetres tall, was likely intended for handheld appreciation, allowing viewers to admire its exquisite details from all angles. The presence of a tiara suggests that the figure may depict a goddess, possibly Venus, adding to its allure.
Arts Minister Ruth Mackenzie expressed her hopes for the statue’s future, stating, “This statuette is small but mighty. The detail and refinement mark it out as an exceptional piece. I very much hope this export bar can help keep this exquisite statue in the country where the public can also enjoy its beauty.”
The Significance of Antico’s Work
Stuart Lochhead, a member of the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest (RCEWA), highlighted the importance of Antico’s artistry. He noted that the sculptor gained fame for his adept imitation of classical antiquity and developed a sophisticated technique for crafting luxuriously finished bronze statuettes. The Seated Nymph exemplifies this skill, featuring not only gilded elements but also inlaid silver eyes, which enhance its beauty. The sculpture was rediscovered within the collection at Woburn Abbey, and its departure from the UK would represent a significant loss for public access to an admired artist’s work.
Reviewing Committee’s Recommendations
The decision to impose the export ban follows careful consideration by the RCEWA, which determined that the Seated Nymph meets key criteria for its outstanding aesthetic significance and its importance in the study of the history of sculpture collecting in the UK, particularly within the context of the Bedford collection and the interrelations among Antico’s works.
The export licence application for the sculpture is postponed until 17 December 2026, during which interested parties are encouraged to express their intent to purchase. Following this initial deferral, there will be a 15-day period for the current owners to evaluate any offers made at the recommended price of £4.6 million, plus VAT. A subsequent deferral period will be initiated upon signing an Option Agreement, providing an additional five months for the acquisition process.
How to Participate in the Acquisition Process
Organisations or individuals interested in acquiring the Seated Nymph are advised to reach out to the RCEWA directly at 02072680534 or via email at rcewa@artscouncil.org.uk. This rare opportunity to obtain a significant piece of art history should not be overlooked, as it offers a chance to keep a vital part of the UK’s cultural heritage accessible to the public.
Details of the sculpture are as follows: Pier Jacopo Alari Bonacolsi (approximately 1455-1528), known as Antico, Seated Nymph, created circa 1503. The bronze statuette is adorned with mercury-gilding on the hair and drapery, along with silver-inlaid eyes, standing at a height of 19.5 cm, or 22 cm including its bronze base.
The provenance of this remarkable piece traces back to notable historical figures and collections, including its possible origins with Isabella d’Este, Marchioness of Mantua, and its journey through various esteemed owners, culminating in its current status.
The RCEWA serves as an independent advisory body, supported by Arts Council England (ACE), tasked with evaluating the national importance of cultural objects destined for export under specific criteria.