Avanti Galleri
Universelle Paris Exposition 1878
Francois I ~ King of France
This rare magnificent museum quality majolica bust was sculpted for and exhibited at the Universelle Paris Exposition of 1878 by the renowned gifted artist Angelo Minghetti, an Italian ceramist and painter of majolica pieces.
The Paris Exposition encompassed 185 acres and was attended by over 16 million people during its run of six months. It celebrated the recovery of France after the Franco-Prussian War. The exposition was a proclamation, to the nation and the world, that France was ready once again to assume her traditional role as a great civilizing force in human nature.
Mr. Minghetti welcomed the opportunity to participate in the Paris Exposition and delivered award winning designs that captured the fascination of attendees.
He was a resident of Bologna, where he studied at the Academy of Fine Arts. He opened his studio in Bologna in 1858 and his works received almost immediate acclaim. His majolica ware was inspired by the Neo-Renaissance revival of the period. The Minghetti Studio participated in the most important art and commerce events in Italy and abroad.
Minghetti's well respected works were included in national and international exhibitions including the 1873 World Exposition in Vienna, 1877 National Exhibition of Fine Arts in Naples and The 1878 Exposition Universelle in Paris, 1880 in Turin & 1883 Rome.
The Minghetti factory was continued by his sons Gennaro and Arturo. In 1908 his grandson gave the company the name of "Ceramiche Artistiche Angelo Minghetti & Figli", which finally closed in 1967.
His designs have sold at numerous auction houses including The Accademia Fine Art in Monte Carlo, Sotheby's of London, also in Belgium, France and the U.S.
His works are currently showcased at The Victoria & Albert Museum in London.
The "Francois I ~ King of France" original majolica pictured above is monogrammed in blue glaze, surmounted with a star, interior inscribed as well.
Currently being offered by Avanti Galleri. Preview available by appointment only.
Angelo Minghetti
1822-1885