Doe - Louis Vidal 1831-1892

Dimensions Total height: approx. 15 cm. Ovoid base: 13.6 x 6 cm Weight: 853 grams Signature signed on the Vidal motif Material Bronze proof with golden patina. Old edition font. Green marble base (slight chips)

Surprising destiny of the sculptor Louis Vidal! Suffering from profound blindness at the age of 28, he nonetheless pursued a career as a sculptor, in a world so little designed for the blind, thanks to friendship, esteem and a lot of talent! This Cévennes resident, born in Nîmes on December 6, 1831, was raised by his mother Sophie Navatel and her husband, the painter Alexandre-Marie Colin. Showing a certain talent for sculpture, the Municipal Council of Nîmes granted him a pension allowing him to settle in Paris. This was how he entered the workshop of Antoine-Louis Barye then that of Pierre-Louis Rouillard, famous animal sculptors. But by the time he reached 22, he lost most of his vision and, six years later, was completely blind. Passionate about his art, determined to succeed despite his blindness, he replaced sight with touch. In 1855, not yet completely blind, he presented a lying panther at the Universal Exhibition, which was acquired by the State. In 1859, it was a lying doe that he exhibited at the Salon. This small work, full of delicacy and finesse, belonged to His Imperial Highness Jérôme Napoléon. He participated in the Salons quite regularly until 1882. The year 1861 validated the recognition he already had with a Third Class medal, and a recall two years later, in 1863.

To go further: https://www .lestresorsdegamaliel.com/sculptures/485-biche.html

© Copyright texts and photos: Les Trésors de Gamaliel