Overview
Donato Barcaglia (1849-1930), a sculptor and architect, was born in Pavia, Lombardy, a short distance from Milan. He studied at the Accademia di Belle Arti di Brera under the guidance of Abbondio Sangiorgio. His prodigious talent emerged as early as age 17, with his debut work, Vendemmiatore, installed in the Palazzo Reale in Milan in 1866. His contemporary critics compared him with Antonio Canova, swiftly catapulting him into a successful career. Soon, he began participating in the most significant exhibitions between Milan, Florence, and Genoa, always obtaining acclaim and awards. His ability to capture female sensuality in marble became legendary. His sculptures representing everyday life, portraits of contemporary politicians, and funerary work, which he showed at international exhibitions in Santiago de Chile, Paris, Philadelphia, London, Boston, and Buenos Aires, garnered significant awards, solidifying his status as the leading sculptor of his generation. Barcaglia spearheaded one of Italy's most prolific and successful sculpting studios, specializing in prominent public and private monuments. Known for his exuberant personality, he was an integral part of the art scene in Milan, and artists and writers frequently visited his studio.