UK government places export bar on ‘rare’ Renaissance sculpture worth £4.6m
‘Seated Nymph’ was created in the early 16th century by the Italian sculptor Antico, nicknamed for his Classical-inspired bronzes
The UK government has imposed an export ban on a rare Renaissance sculpture, "Seated Nymph," created by artist Pier Jacopo Alari Bonacolsi, also known as Antico, and estimated to be worth £4.6 million. The 20-centimeter high bronze piece, adorned with mercury gilding on its hair and drapery, along with silver-inlaid eyes, was initially part of the Duke of Bedford's collection.
It was auctioned off at Sotheby's London in 2009 for £1.4 million, and subsequently ended up gathering dust at Woburn Abbey. The Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest recommended the export bar, which will be valid until December 17. Following the initial period, owners will have 15 business days to consider offers at the suggested price, followed by an additional five-month deferral.
Ruth Mackenzie, the recent minister for arts and museums, expressed her hopes that this export bar would help retain the beautiful statue within the country for public appreciation.
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