Chiaro di luna
1931 - 1932
Arturo Martini
Two women are looking at the moon from their balcony. Arturo Martini uses a typical motif from Romantic literature and painting here: the silent figure gazing at the starry sky. Since the moon is the same for everyone, people can stare at it and feel connected to their loved one, even if that person is far away. The moon is therefore associated with longing, connection, melancholy, and reflection.
Details
- Plan number: C8
- Zone: Collection pavilion
- Title: Chiaro di luna
- Creator: Arturo Martini
- Date: 1931 - 1932
- Material: terracotta
- Acquisition: purchase, 1954
- Object number: MID.B.066
This large terracotta sculpture is crafted with great skill. The contrast between the static balustrade and the dynamic movement of the two female figures gives the piece a theatrical quality.
The moon appears close, yet it is far away. This evokes a sense of longing or unattainability, often associated with romantic love. But there is also a connection to the longing for nature—like when city dwellers look up at the night sky and momentarily lose themselves in the vastness of nature.
In the work of Italian sculptor Arturo Martini, his admiration for Etruscan and classical sculpture is evident, yet there is also a modern touch. He gained fame through public commissions under Fascist Italy in the 1930s and 1940s. He mainly worked figuratively and used a wide range of materials, from clay to wood, stone, and even silver.
From the same artist
Arturo Martini
What title would you give this artwork? Arturo Martini chose 'Gare invernale', literally translated as 'Winter Sports'. Not exactly the first association one would make when looking at this still, quiet man and woman. It’s possible that the artist is referring to naturism with this work, a movement that sees harmony between humans and nature as an ideal.
Arturo Martini
The inspiration for this sculpture comes from a book by Giovanni Verga, about a she-wolf in human form. About the posture of the statue, Arturo Martini says: “The natural form of man is a child crawling on all fours.” He thinks that sculptures of standing people are never beautiful.
Arturo Martini
A woman, nude except for a small hat, enjoys the sun. It is a classical female nude, but the headwear adds a surprising detail. The woman's posture also deviates from tradition, giving Arturo Martini’s sculpture a modern touch. In 1930s fascist Italy, sunbathing was promoted as a way to build a perfect and healthy body. The focus on the ideal body was closely linked to national pride.
Arturo Martini
‘La Nena’ (the girl) is the pet name of Maria, the daughter of Arturo Martini. In 1930 he immortalized her in terracotta. It is a lifelike image that captures Maria’s sad expression well. Martini portrays her at the moment she leaves for boarding school as a 9-year-old. She stares out of the train window with her mouth slightly open and a dreamy look. She leans forward a little, crosses her arms in front of her chest and tries to hold the hat on her twisted braids.
This artwork on the map
Easily navigate to Chiaro di luna by Arturo Martini and add it to your planned route.