Pietro Calvi (1833-1884) was born in Milan and studied at the Milan Academy. He later went on to train under the renowned sculptor Giovanni Seleroni. It was under Seleroni’s guidance that Calvi developed the outstanding sensitivity and refinement that became the hallmark of his modelling. Calvi relished working in bronze and marble, often combining the two materials to create the most striking and effective results. This style is reminded of another 19th century ethnographic sculptor, Charles Cordier. However, unlike the latter’s scientific outlook on his subjects, Calvi brought out the dramatic, emotional side of his sitters.
Many of his works were exhibited throughout Europe and America, most notably at London’s Royal Academy from 1872 until the year before his death in 1883.
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