Specialists in antique and decorative furniture, based in Sussex.

White’s Antiques

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Unit 10 The Vinery, Arundel Road
Poling, West Sussex
United Kingdom
BN18 9PY
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Early 20th‑Century Reconstituted Stone Figure of David with Weathered Patina 1920-1930s
REF: EP056 / LA566360
£2,800
€3,240
$3,736
LoveAntiques Dealersince Feb 2021Approved item842 sales by dealer
LoveAntiques Dealersince Feb 2021Approved item842 sales by dealer
Description
A beautifully weathered early 20th‑century reconstituted stone David, circa 1920–30s, with strong sculptural presence
Why We Love Him
There is something wonderfully honest about this early 20th‑century David. He isn’t trying to be a perfect reproduction of Michelangelo’s masterpiece - instead, he carries the charm of the interwar period, when classical forms were reinterpreted with a slightly bolder, more simplified sculptural language. His lower body is beautifully modelled, his stance confident, and his face surprisingly gentle. Decades outdoors have softened every edge, giving him a velvety, moss‑kissed patina that only time can create. He has presence, character, and that quiet, lived‑in beauty that makes a garden statue feel like part of the landscape rather than an addition to it.
He’s also a genuinely handsome example of early 20th‑century garden statuary. The weathering is exceptional, the modelling of the legs particularly strong, and he holds his scale with real authority. From the sculptural language and the way the mould has been handled, we place him confidently in the early 20th century - likely 1920s-30s - pre‑WWII. That interwar period produced some wonderfully characterful interpretations of classical figures, and this piece has exactly that charm. He photographs beautifully and will make a striking focal point in any garden setting.
At a Glance - Appeal, Desirability & Collectibility
• Date: Early 20th Century, circa 1920-30s
• Pre‑WWII: Stylistically and materially consistent with interwar production
• Origin: British or Continental European garden foundry
• Subject:
• Michelangelo’s David (interpretative early 20th‑century cast)
• A wonderful example of practical beauty
• Style: Classical revival with interwar sculptural proportions
• Materials: Reconstituted stone
• Reconstituted stone is not a drawback - in fact, for outdoor buyers it’s a benefit: • More affordable than carved marble, but with similar presence
• More durable than carved stone and less prone to frost damage • Easier to move
• Design & Craftsmanship:
• A wonderful example of practical beauty
• Strong modelling to legs and lower body
• Handsome, expressive face
• Characteristic interwar simplification to upper torso and hands
• Condition:
• Beautifully developed natural patina
• Excellent weathered condition from decades of outdoor life
• Genuine lichen & mossing
• Age‑appropriate wear with surface texture and softened edges
• Dimensions: H: 173cm (68.1") | W: 60cm (23.6") | D: 40cm (15.7")
• Decorative Appeal: Striking scale, sculptural presence, and timeless classical silhouette
• Display Ideas: Ideal as a focal point in gardens, courtyards, terraces, or architectural entrances
• Versatility: Works in formal gardens, contemporary landscapes, or romantic, timeworn settings
• Collectibility: Early 20th‑century garden statuary with authentic patina is increasingly sought after
• Delivery: Delivery is not included - please use the Request Delivery Quote before completing your order
Heritage, History & Craftsmanship
This impressive and atmospheric early 20th‑century reconstituted stone garden figure of David embodies the enduring appeal of early 20th‑century classical revival design and is a wonderfully characterful example of interwar garden statuary. Dating to the 1920s–30s and likely pre‑WWII, it reflects the period’s fascination with classical forms interpreted through a more robust, simplified sculptural language. Standing at 173cm (68.1"), the figure has real presence. The modelling of the lower body is particularly strong, with well‑shaped legs and a grounded stance that gives the piece a confident, architectural quality. His face is gentle and expressive, softened further by the natural mossing and surface texture that have developed over many decades outdoors.
The upper torso shows the characteristic stylisation of interwar casts - a slightly simplified treatment of musculature, hands, and hair that distinguishes these early 20th‑century moulds from both Victorian examples and later post‑war reproductions. This blend of classical inspiration and early modern interpretation gives the piece its distinctive charm.
The surface patina is entirely authentic, with a beautifully mottled, velvety texture that only long-term outdoor exposure can create. This natural ageing enhances the sculptural form, lending depth, softness, and a sense of quiet antiquity.
Styling Suggestions
• Position as a focal point at the end of a garden path or vista
• Beautiful against clipped hedging, stone walls, or architectural planting
• Works equally well in formal gardens or contemporary minimalist landscapes
• Uplighting at dusk enhances the sculptural silhouette
• Pairs well with urns, plinths, or weathered stone planters
Explore Every Facet
Our high‑resolution photographs allow you to examine this figure in detail, exactly as you would in the showroom. These images form an essential part of the condition report and are intended to provide complete transparency and confidence in your purchase. Study the rich natural patina, the mossing across the surface, the strong modelling of the legs and stance, and the subtle variations in tone that speak to decades of outdoor life. The images also highlight the characteristic early 20th‑century sculptural language - simplified hands, expressive face, and the gentle irregularities that give the piece its authenticity and charm.
Sustainable Style
Thank you for considering this early 20th‑century reconstituted stone figure of David - a choice that is both culturally and environmentally responsible. In every sense, the most sustainable item is the one that endures
Antique and early 20th‑century garden statuary represents the most sustainable form of furnishing: already made, already used, and crafted to withstand time and weather. Choosing pieces like this preserves existing materials, supports traditional craftsmanship, and brings depth, individuality, and history to your outdoor spaces.
Purchase with Confidence
White’s Antiques carefully selects every item for authenticity, character, craftsmanship and decorative presence - ensuring that each piece carries both aesthetic and historic value. Each item is described and photographed with care, ensuring complete transparency and confidence in your purchase. We are an established and successful business serving both trade and private collectors. You are warmly invited to visit our Showroom at The Vinery, Poling, West Sussex, to experience our curated collections firsthand, explore the stories behind each antique, and appreciate these timeless treasures in person.
Delivery & Collection Information
• Collection from our Sussex showroom
• Local delivery available
• Nationwide courier options arranged on request
• If delivery is required, please use the ‘Delivery Quote’ tab to obtain a quote before completing your purchase, as delivery is not included in our prices
measurements
Height:
173 cm
Width:
60 cm
Depth:
40 cm
declaration
White’s Antiques has clarified that the Early 20th‑Century Reconstituted Stone Figure of David with Weathered Patina 1920-1930s (LA566360) is genuinely of the period declared with the date/period of manufacture being circa 1920s-1930s
additional info
Category:
Material:
Origin:
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1920s-1930s
location
This Early 20th‑Century Reconstituted Stone Figure of David with Weathered Patina 1920-1930s is located in United Kingdom
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