A young woman sits among birds, carefully supporting one of the pigeons on her palm. The tilt of her head and concentrated gaze turn the simple scene into a quiet moment of interaction between a person and nature. The contrast of materials plays an important role: the pale ivory face and hands stand out against the dark patinated bronze, while gilded vegetal ornament enlivens the folds of the long dress. The pigeons are placed at different levels – two at the girl’s feet and another in her hand – giving the composition a natural rhythm. The broad marble base unites the figure and birds into a coherent horizontal group. Free of emphatic theatricality, the image is distinguished above all by the calm gesture and meticulous decorative finish.

minimize...