UK Galleries Called to Action to Preserve Unique Renaissance Masterpiece

Galleries and museums across the United Kingdom have been presented with a unique opportunity to secure a £4.6 million Renaissance masterpiece, Antico’s Seated Nymph, for the nation. This comes after the Government imposed a temporary export ban, allowing time for institutions to raise the necessary funds to retain the sculpture for public display.

Crafted over five centuries ago, this bronze statuette is notable for its exquisite mercury-gilded hair and drapery, showcasing the remarkable skill of its creator, the Italian sculptor Pier Jacopo Alari Bonacolsi, commonly referred to as Antico. Widely regarded as one of his finest creations, the Seated Nymph measures just under 20cm in height, suggesting it was designed to be held and admired from various angles. The tiara adorning the figure’s head indicates that she may embody a goddess, potentially Venus herself.

Deadline for Expressions of Interest Approaches

The deadline for potential buyers to come forward is set for 17 December, a crucial date for ensuring the continued presence of this rare Renaissance sculpture in the UK. Arts Minister Ruth Mackenzie expressed her hopes that this export restriction would facilitate the statue’s retention within the country, allowing the public to appreciate its beauty and craftsmanship.

Stuart Lochhead, a member of the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest (RCEWA), remarked on Antico’s legacy. He noted that the sculptor was renowned for his ability to replicate classical antiquity, employing a sophisticated technique to produce opulently finished bronze statuettes. The Seated Nymph, with its intricate details, including inlaid silver eyes, is a testament to Antico’s artistry. It was rediscovered in the sculpture collection at Woburn Abbey, and its departure from the UK would signify a substantial loss, depriving the public of access to the works of this exceedingly rare and celebrated artist.

Significance of the Seated Nymph

The RCEWA reached its decision based on the statue’s fulfilment of the second and third Waverley criteria, highlighting its outstanding aesthetic value and its significance in the study of sculpture collecting history in the UK, particularly within the context of the Bedford collection and the relationships among Antico’s models.

The export licence application for the sculpture has been deferred for an initial period concluding on 17 December 2026, during which interested parties are encouraged to express their interest in acquiring the piece. Should an appropriate buyer emerge, the current owners will be given a consideration period of 15 business days to review any purchase offers at the recommended price of £4.6 million, plus VAT. Following this initial deferral, a second period of five months will commence once an Option Agreement is signed.

Contact Information for Potential Buyers

Organisations or individuals keen to acquire the Seated Nymph should reach out to the RCEWA at 02072680534 or via email at rcewa@artscouncil.org.uk. For reference, the sculpture was created by Pier Jacopo Alari Bonacolsi (circa 1455-1528), known as Antico, and is estimated to date from around 1503. It is a bronze piece, enhanced with mercury-gilding on the hair and drapery, and features silver-inlaid eyes. The figure itself stands at a height of 19.5 cm, and when including its bronze base, it reaches 22 cm.

The provenance of this remarkable work is rich, potentially tracing back to notable figures such as Isabella d’Este, Marchioness of Mantua, and members of the Gonzaga family, before eventually becoming part of the collection of the Dukes of Bedford. It has remained within their lineage until its sale at Sotheby’s in December 2009, where it was purchased by the current owner.

The RCEWA serves as an independent advisory body supported by Arts Council England, providing guidance to the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport on the national importance of cultural objects intended for export.