Igor Mitoraj — Centurione Series
The Centurione series is among the most recognisable works in Igor Mitoraj's bronze catalogue. Created across the mid-1980s, these partial heads of Roman soldiers — their faces crossed by a horizontal band concealing the eyes — have become emblematic of Mitoraj's fusion of classical authority and postmodern mystery. If you own a Centurione and are considering selling, I am actively buying directly and privately.
About the Centurione Series
The Centurione bronzes were conceived in the period when Mitoraj's studio in Pietrasanta was at the height of its activity. Drawing on imagery of Roman imperial portraiture, Mitoraj took the fragment — the head already severed from the body — and introduced a further act of concealment: a band cutting across the eyes, rendering the soldier simultaneously commanding and blinded. The patina varies between editions: some are dark brown-black, others carry the greenish oxide of age, and a third variant was cast with a gilt golden finish.
Three principal editions are known in specialist circles:
Centurione I — 1987
The first Centurione, dating to 1987, shows the head with a more pronounced cheekbone structure and a broader horizontal band. The dark patina and the characteristic Pietrasanta foundry mark appear at the base of the neck. Many examples circulate without their original base — the sculpture stands equally well on travertine or black marble.
Centurione II — 1986
The more widely encountered edition, Centurione II, was cast in 1986. The face is slightly more frontal in orientation, and the band is shallower, exposing the upper brow. Some examples carry a coin medallion detail at the side of the neck — a classical cameo embedded into the bronze, referencing Mitoraj's interest in the numismatic tradition. Signed on the lower neck: MITORAJ.
Centurione III — Large Format
Larger format Centurione castings were produced in much smaller editions for gallery and institutional clients. These are considerably rarer and command significantly higher prices at auction. If you own a large-format Centurione, please do not hesitate to contact me — I have a particular interest in these pieces.
Current Auction Prices for Mitoraj Centurione
Recent auction results give a reliable picture of current market values. Small editions (18–22 cm) in good condition with original signature have sold between €800 and €2,800 at houses including Artcurial, Millon, Aguttes, and Hampel in the past two years. Condition, the presence of an original base, and whether the piece is accompanied by any certificate of authenticity from the Atelier all influence final price. Dark patina examples in excellent condition consistently outperform gilt variants.
Do You Own a Centurione by Mitoraj?
I am actively seeking all Centurione editions — I and II in any condition, and larger formats in particular. There is no obligation to sell: if you are simply curious about the value of what you own, I am happy to give you a frank and informed assessment. My response is personal, prompt, and entirely private.
Sell Your Mitoraj Centurione
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Collectors and sellers looking for information on the Centurione series also search for: Mitoraj bronze sculptures, Centurione II specifically, Mitoraj auction prices, and Mitoraj Tête Secrète — another bandaged head series with strong collector demand.