Statue, marble, 'Galatea', by Pietro Baratta, Italian, early 18th century

The figure is seated in an open shell with legs extended to the right. The shell is propelled by two dolphins, represented in the water on the right, and by a Triton at the left, whose right hand rests on its upper face. The head of Galatea is represented in profile to the right. She holds up a fold of drapery in her raised left hand. A second piece of drapery is threaded between her thighs and held in place by her right arm. The bun in Galatea's hair has been carved separately and pinned in place.
The head of Triton is sliced across the right temple and her right shoulder is partially cut off. The base is not finished at the back. Missing areas on the left suggest it was once juxtaposed with a moulding on the left side. The upper part of the drapery held in the right hand and the lower part of the drapery held in the left hand have been broken off.

This figure and the figure of A.138-1956 may have formed part of a fountain; other pieces possibly from the same complex survive at Harlaxton Manor (Lincs).
Bought with its companion group (V&A. no. A.138-1956), for £45 (from the John Webb Trust), from Pembridge Antiques. Previously at Grantham Castle.

The marble represents the reclining figure of Galatea, a sea nymph, with dolphins. It was made by Pietro Baratta (1659-1729), who was one of the most active Venetian sculptors at the beginning of the 18th century. This group and its companion figure of Bacchus, sculpted by Antonio Tarsia, probably came from the same fountain: other pieces possibly from the same complex survive at Harlaxton Manor (near Grantham, Lincolnshire), including a Putto in a red marble shell, also signed by Tarsia.

A.139-1956