Sea monster 1495 - 1515

This sea monster was cast in bronze by Severo Calzetta da Ravenna, around the early 16th century. Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin, and has been prized for millennia for its durability and capacity to capture fine detail. Here, the artist has exploited these qualities to the fullest. Just look at the creature’s expressive face, the scales covering its body, and the delicate, clawed feet. The casting process itself – pouring molten metal into a mold – allowed for the relatively quick reproduction of complex forms. In the Renaissance, this meant that artists like Severo could produce multiples of their designs. These statuettes catered to a growing market of collectors, who were keen to display their wealth and taste through such refined objects. The dark, patinated surface of the bronze gives the sea monster an air of mystery and antiquity. But don’t let that fool you. This is not just a beautiful sculpture; it’s also a product of its time, reflecting the rise of artisanal production.