Marzia Colonna

Purchased directly from the Artist by the Jerwood Foundation, October 2001

Ragley Hall, Warwickshire (2001 to present).

Generally the sculpture is in good overall condition. The patina is worn and streaked in places, and there are a few minor spots of verdigris. There are spots of staining and debris, which is consistent with the piece being exhibited outside. Please telephone the department on +44 207 293 6424 if you have any questions regarding the present lot.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

'Henry Moore found the female form pivotal to his work, Elisabeth Frink the male. In my work they are of equal importance, as is the balance between the two...' (Marzia Colonna, 1997)

Creation is an exquisite work that demonstrates Colonna's ability to capture the essence of human emotion and the relationship between the masculine and feminine through the abstracted human form. This outdoor bronze presents a powerful statement on gender and humanity, as from the solid trunk of the sculpture emerge two distinct yet similar branches that represent male and female, showing that although they may differ in appearance, the two genders have the same origin and are at their cores the same. The organic form and intended placement of the sculpture out of doors reveals Colonna's fascination with the interaction between humanity and the landscape it inhabits, as the shape of the work echoes natural elements such as trees.  Colonna's strong command of line and symmetry as well as her sensual and tactile approach to bronze has forged a powerful work that although small in size, exudes a feeling of monumentality.