It seems that the sculptor Pietro Tacca used only two convicts as models for the “Four Moors”. The younger was Morgiano (which is a the name dark type of grapes) and the older was Alì.
Try to judge by yourself if this can be true, here are the Northwest and the Southeast moors.
Meet Alì, the Northeast and Southwest moor. Some say that the artist tried to represent the four ages of the man, portraying both models younger and older.
Both convicts were freed after the work and legend says that the younger Morgiano sometimes brought his new family to see “his” monument.External links: Barbary Pirates (Wikipedia)
See also: Four Noses - Eight Moors - Four Moors
13 comments:
These are great VP. Love the sculptures and your images of them!
These are remarkable. I'm glad they received their freedom.
Yes, Ali's statues do look like they're of the same man. Can't tell with Morgiano though.
I'm glad they were given their freedom, and the story about Morgiano made me smile.
Boy, I don't know. There are certain similarities, but I couldn't be certain. Dramatic sculptures, whatever!
Your details, both in words and photos, adds so much to the understanding and appreciation of Ali and Morgiano.
I'm glad they were unchained finally.
You're right! I don't think I would've noticed unless you mentuoned it! :-)
Very interesting and I too am glad they were released after posing. The younger Morgiano appears to me to be more Moorish looking---then again I may be very wrong. Great pathos though. MB
We can't be sure about these two fellows, but usually convicts were Barbary Pirates.
They weren't really nice guys, often captured while raiding our coast.
An interesting story to accompany some beautiful pieces of art.
Their faces are so expressive. I also like the story.
Now this is really interesting and the photos are fantastic!
very intersting Artwork , great sculptures !
Yes, I believe Pietro Tacca used only two models for the four moors.
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