Period: Second half of the 18th century
Neapolitan School, Mid-18th Century Soldier on Horseback Polychrome terracotta relief, 53 cm diameter - Frame 66 cm diameter The examined work is a circular terracotta relief depicting a soldier on horseback, captured in a dynamic moment. The rider, dressed in a red uniform and a tricorn hat with feathers, wields a sword while the horse is depicted galloping. In the foreground, war elements such as a pair of cannons, a drum, armor, and a helmet are visible, evoking a battle or a military camp. The relief is finely modeled, with particular attention to the details of the clothing and military equipment, suggesting a work of qualified artistic scope. The relief is made of polychrome terracotta, an artistic technique widely used in the 18th century for the creation of wall decorations, medallions, and commemorative plaques. Terracotta allowed for a great richness of detail and, once painted, could simulate more precious materials. In the 18th century, Naples was an important center for the production of polychrome terracotta, used both in religious contexts and for secular and commemorative decorations. Neapolitan artists and workshops excelled in the processing of terracotta, with particular attention to dynamic modeling and chromatic vivacity, characteristics evident in this relief. The red uniform could refer to Bourbon soldiers of the Kingdom of Naples, in particular to cavalry units or units allied with Spanish and French troops. In the 18th century, the Neapolitan army adopted models inspired by the French and Spanish, with red jackets used in some light cavalry units. In particular, the Kingdom of Naples under Charles of Bourbon (1734-1759) and Ferdinand IV of Bourbon (1759-1799) was closely linked to France and Spain, and the choice of uniforms reflected this influence. The relief in question could have been made in a decorative context for a noble residence or a barracks. Naples boasted workshops specialized in the creation of terracotta plaques to commemorate military events or decorate official environments.