Antique 18th century Italian Grand Tour white statuary marble figure of the Farnese Flora emblematic of Spring. Expert carving captures the fine detail in her diaphanous gown and folds of drapery. This statue was a popular image in 18th century England. The present example resembles the figure of Flora in the National Trust at Stourhead, a Palladian country house in Wiltshire. The Stourhead Flora was executed by John Rysbrack in 1760. A similar statue in terracotta is in the Sir John Soane Museum in London.. This depiction of Flora dates from a 2nd century BC sculpture that was found in the ruins of the Baths of Caracalla during excavations under Pope Paul III. Roman copy of a smaller Greek original. It stood in the Farnese Palace in Rome until 1790, when the Farnese collection was removed to Naples. Measures 22 3/4" tall x 9" wide x 7" front to back. A large figure of manageable size. Looks wonderful on a column or tabletop in the hall, library or any room. Good condition with pleasing old surface.