Although the traditional attribution to Maragliano cannot be accepted, the work appears comparable to the crucifixes of Agostino Storace. Notably, the dynamic drapery reflects the sinuous movements inspired by the "Baroque wind," which stirs and agitates it. The hair, disheveled into restless locks, also aligns with this style. Alternatively, the piece may belong to the immediate circle of the more renowned sculptor. The beautifully rendered body, with its thoracic cavity meticulously detailed to convey the tension of the final spasm, exhibits a slight torsion at the hips, emphasized by the contracted posture of the legs. The statue was likely repainted.
HxLxD 47,64in x 43,50in x 8,66in
Private collection
Defects, missing parts and restorations. The statue was likely repainted.
Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each product to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Coradi Rare Finds is merely a subjective opinion.
Storace Agostino - Genoa 1710, c. 1788; was an Italian sculptor, the nephew and pupil of the renowned Anton Maria Maragliano. Trained in his grandfather's workshop, he collaborated on various works, including the Pietà at the Sanctuary of the Madonnetta in Genoa (1731–32) and the Baptism of Christ in the Church of San Giovanni Battista in Vado Ligure. After Maragliano's death in 1739, Storace inherited the workshop alongside his cousin Giovanni Maragliano and began taking independent commissions. One of his earliest independent works is the processional group Christ Appears to Saint Martin Giving His Cloak to the Poor, created in 1740 for the Confraternity of Saint Martin in Genoa Pegli.
Among his most notable works are:
Sculptural Group of Saint Nicholas Crushing the Demon: Located in the Church of Nostra Signora della Consolazione e San Vincenzo Martire in Genoa, this group depicts Saint Nicholas of Tolentino triumphing over the demon.
Statue of the "Madonna dei Bambini": Attributed to Storace, this polychrome and gilded wooden statue from the 18th century is housed in the Church of Santa Maria della Stella e San Pietro Parenzo in Sferracavallo. Recently restored, the statue portrays a benevolent Mother smiling and offering protection.
Sculptural Group of Blessed Girolamo Emiliani: Created in 1750, this carved and painted wooden group depicts Blessed Jerome Emiliani before the Crucifix. The piece is preserved in the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena in Genoa.
Storace made a significant impact on 18th-century Genoese wooden sculpture, contributing to the spread of the Maraglianesque style and creating works of great artistic and devotional value.