Mid-Century Modern Rearing Horse by Motta, 1970s

Exceptional and irreplaceable monumental sculpture of a rearing horse (Cavallo Rampante) by Motta – Italy, 1970s

For the discerning collector, high-profile interior designer, or exclusive estate: A monumental, museum-quality masterpiece of mid-century modern design at an absolute investment level. This breathtaking large-scale sculpture of a rearing horse was masterfully handcrafted in the 1970s by the renowned Italian art foundry Motta.

with a majestic and extremely rare height and depth of 68 cm each, this museum-sized piece transcends the boundaries of typical decorative art. It was designed as a dominant, architectural key piece for stately entrances, representative rooms, or as an ultra-luxurious, high-contrast focal point on a minimalist design sideboard.

Craftsmanship & Materiality:
The sculpture was cast in heavy, solid bronze using traditional Italian casting techniques. The metal's remarkable hardness and its characteristic, deep red-copper core—visible in the authentic casting lines and indentations of the structure (such as on the tail)—attest to the exceptional quality of the non-ferrous metal used.

The entire piece is distinguished by its magnificent fire gilding (Ormolu / Bronzo Dorato). This elaborate, traditional finishing process inextricably bonds a high-carat layer of gold to the bronze, giving the sculpture an enduring, seemingly fluid, mirror-like luster. The deep, warm reflections react phenomenally to changing ambient light, elevating this piece far beyond the realm of classic design objects into the realm of fine art. The horse rests with absolute security on its original, organically structured rock base.

Provenance & Investment Value:

An invaluable criterion for serious collectors, galleries, and investors: The original metal maker's seal, stamped "Motta – Stampato in Italia," is located on the underside, guaranteeing its authentic Italian origin and provenance from the 1970s. Finding an original Motta sculpture of this monumental size and in this pristine collector's condition on the global market is an absolute rarity.

Condition Report:
In outstanding, flawless gallery condition. The fire-gilded finish possesses an exceptional, brilliant depth. Only the most minimal, microscopic, and entirely age-appropriate marks are present, underscoring the piece's authentic vintage character—completely free of dents, deep scratches, or structural defects. Professionally cleaned, gently hand-polished, and immediately ready to shine as a spectacular centerpiece in a luxury residence.

An irreplaceable work of art of museum quality for the absolute top tier. In the international art market and at leading auction houses, fire-gilded large bronze sculptures (Ormolu) from this period in such pristine, mirror-like collector's condition are virtually unobtainable. An uncompromising investment piece, unparalleled in its exclusivity, craftsmanship, and majestic presence.

• Height: 68 cm
• Depth: 24 cm
• Width: 63.5 cm
from knee to tail: 71 cm
Weight: 6928 g