The exhibition presents bronze sculptures, more than one dozen of which are recent additions to the Robert H. Smith Collection, in context with outstanding boxwood and ivory carvings from his collection. Among the masterpieces on display are the newly acquired and superb early cast of Giovanni Bologna's Cesarini Venus (late 16th or early 17th century) and the finest and earliest version of Giovanni Bologna's famous Birdcatcher (late 16th century). Also on view is Seated Nymph (1503), perhaps the most exquisite of all the bronzes made in the early 16th century by the celebrated goldsmith and sculptor Antico, and Giovanni Francesco Susini's David with the Head of Goliath (c. 1625–1630). Most of the eight boxwood and ivory carvings were made by the great German sculptor Leonhard Kern (1588–1662). The boxwood figures relate to the bronzes in color, composition, and style, and sometimes were inspired by them, providing points of comparison and creating a stimulating contrast with the other works in the show. The last time the Robert H. Smith Collection of Renaissance bronze statuettes was exhibited at the National Gallery of Art was in 2002.

Organization: Organized by the National Gallery of Art, Washington.

Sponsor: The exhibition is sponsored by The Exhibition Circle of the National Gallery of Art.

Schedule: National Gallery of Art, January 27–May 4, 2008

Passes: Passes are not required for this exhibition.

The exhibition is on view in the West Building, Main Floor, Galleries 74, 75, and 79