Rampant Horse. Francesco Fanelli (Florence, 1577-Paris? 1663). 17th-18th century. Bronze with a transparent reddish patina.

This large rearing horse is based on models by the sculptor Francesco Fanelli. Born in Florence, he worked in Genoa and later in London, where his works were greatly appreciated by Charles I. He may have died in Paris.

Beautiful fusion with a transparent reddish patina typical of the best Florentine productions from the Renaissance onwards.

The body is well-crafted and sleek, showcasing the animal's powerful muscles. The muzzle is well-shaped and expressive, tightened by the bit harness that allows the mouth to open wide and expose the teeth.

Its remarkable dimensions make it a truly striking sculpture, not only from a decorative but also qualitative point of view.

The reference to the rearing horses created by Giambologna and his school, which Fanelli was fond of during his time in Florence, is a must. Our horse turns toward the viewer in a nervous, almost irritated way, while Giambologna's horses are frozen and pointed upward.

Bibliography:
Charles Avery, Giambologna's horses: questions and hypotheses, in Giambologna between Florence and Europe, conference proceedings, Centro Di, Florence, 2000, pp. 11-28.