The Sculptor's Funeral

Vincenzo Gemito's charming sculpture of a Neapolitan Fisherboy is one of the highlights of the Bargello National Sculpture Museum here in Florence - but who was Gemito? Another 19th century French-trained Romantic sculptor cashing in on the popular fisherboy genre? Far from it: the Fisherboy in the Bargello isn't merely depicting a Neapolitan, the sculpture was made by one. And it isn't Romantic, it's Veristic. Learn all about that, and it, and him, by listening to this.

Jason's historical novel about François Rude is finally out! But what lies behind his obsession for this little-known French sculptor from the 19th century? The answers might surprise you; Jason devotes this episode to the history of his fascination about Rude - which led directly to the creation of the Sculptor's Funeral Podcast.

Today we explore the work of the Renaissance masters Niccolo dell'Arca, Guido Mazzoni, and Antonio Begarelli. Never heard of them? You're not alone. Although their work deserves to be ranked alongside their contemporaries Donatello and Verrocchio and yes, even Michelangelo, these sculptors had the misfortune of living on the other side of the mountains from Florence, in Bologna and Modena, far from the marble quarries, far from the Medici. But sculpture finds a way: beyond the influence of Florence, a rich tradition of large scale terracotta figure sculpture developed over several generations, culminating in some of the most elaborate and daring sculpture you've never seen.

Exploring the enigmatic chapel of the Princes of San Severo, Host Jason Arkles lifts the veil of secrecy surrounding the fabulous works therein, including Corradini's Modesty, Quierolo's Freedom from Illusion, and Sanmartino's Veiled Christ. Secret handshakes and initiation rituals optional.

Lavinia Ream (but call her Vinnie!) was, despite the odds, a sculptor. Born into a working class family and growing up in a nation at war, in a time and place which scarcely imagined the existence of 'lady-sculptors', she catapulted herself into the international spotlight and into artistic success while still a teenager. One might say her methods were unorthodox - scandalous, even! - but when playing a rigged game, you do what you need to do to win.