German Gilt Cabinet Bronze of a Grotesque Hooknosed Hunchback Dressed as Mr Punch

A German Gilt Cabinet Bronze of a Grotesque Hooknosed Hunchback Dressed as Mr Punch standing on a silver oval, mounted on a stepped rock crystal base, a baton of rock crystal in his hand, now reduced. His hunchback separately cast, now missing
Second half 17th Century
Size: 10cm high – 4 ins high / 14cm high – 5½ ins high (including base)
The character Pulcinella or Punch originated in Italy and many of these small sculptures were inspired by Jacque Callot’s popular suite of engravings ‘Varie Figure Gobbi’ published in Florence in 1616. Mr Punch arrived in Britain during the Restoration period and during this time the puppet show of Punch and Judy was seen by Samuel Pepys being performed in Covent Garden.
During the 17th and 18th centuries dwarves with their distorted bodies resulting from growth disorders were considered a miraculous caprice of nature and highly venerated for their wit and as entertainers at most of the princely courts of Europe. They were fully integrated into baroque society as is shown by the dwarf jester called Hante who served at the Dresden court of Augustus the Strong.

German Gilt Cabinet Bronze of a Grotesque Hooknosed Hunchback Dressed as Mr Punch

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+44 (0)7768 236921
+44 (0)7836 684133

enquiries@finch-and-co.co.uk
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ENQUIRIES

+44 (0)7768 236921
+44 (0)7836 684133

enquiries@finch-and-co.co.uk