Magdalena With Base By Alfonzo Ianelli Sculpture Art Deco

Graceful, contemplative, and rich in early modern design influence, the Magdalena Sculpture with Base is a remarkable reproduction of an original work by Alfonso Iannelli, one of the most important sculptors working in the Chicago area during the early 20th century. Created between 1911 and 1915, this piece represents a formative moment in Iannelli’s career, just prior to his celebrated collaboration with Frank Lloyd Wright on the iconic Midway Gardens project.

The figure of Magdalena embodies the emerging Art Deco aesthetic, with its stylized geometry, elongated proportions, and quiet emotional presence. Her gentle posture and downward gaze evoke introspection and serenity, while the flowing lines of the form reflect the transition from classical sculpture to a more modern, architectural expression.

This sculpture has been faithfully reproduced from a mold taken from an original glazed terra-cotta piece, once acquired at an art auction in Philadelphia. The original was created by Iannelli for a slip-cast manufacturer, placing it among his earliest commercial works and offering a rare glimpse into the development of his artistic language.

Expertly crafted to capture the refined detail and smooth surface quality of the original, this reproduction maintains the integrity of Iannelli’s vision while making the piece accessible to collectors and admirers today. Mounted on a matching base, the sculpture achieves a balanced and elegant presentation suitable for both indoor and outdoor settings.

Ideal for gardens, architectural spaces, or curated interiors, the Magdalena sculpture offers a timeless expression of early 20th-century design. It stands not only as a beautiful figure but as a significant work of American sculptural history—bridging the worlds of fine art, architecture, and decorative design.