Sculptor of Southern Italy, early 18th century, a male bust, terracotta Sculptor of Southern Italy, early 18th century MALE BUST A terracotta sculpture depicting a male figure, perhaps a clergyman or magistrate, characterised by a broad wig and a robe with a wide square lapel ajar on the chest, revealing a tunic thickly buttoned on the front; the head is slightly turned to the right, while the arms are crossed on the chest, leaving the finely moulded right hand in full view. The terracotta in question, in its solemn presentation of the effigy, seems to propose itself as a sketch, perfectly detailed and finished in every detail, preparatory to the realisation of the eventual marble version, perhaps destined for a commemorative memorial or a funerary monument; 73x57x25 cm.