A charming single-figure plaque of a young boy peeling an orange. By the style of the work, this is most probably from the workshops of Giovanni Montelatici, where these poor but charming children were a favourite subject. 

Although seemingly simple, the use of colour in this plaque is fantastic, bringing the red kerchief and blue trousers together on a dark background to stunning effect. It also has numerous very fine and subtle touches that give an indication of its quality: notice the tiny mother-of-pearl button at the top of his shirt, and the use of just the right cut of stone to suggest the boy’s eyelashes. 

The frame is original and works beautifully with him. A lovely plaque in great condition.