James Pradier, 1790-1852, "phryné", Rare Bronze Version Called "immodest", Fonte Susse Frères

Jean-Jacques PRADIER known as James PRADIER. 19th century bronze, so-called "immodest" version, more unveiled than the usual model. The first monumental representation of the subject, Phryne was one of the most noted sculptures at the 1845 Salon. Having initially sketched a nymph figure, Pradier finally gave her the name Phryne. A courtesan of Athens, Phryne would have been the model of Praxiteles, whose mistress she was, for his Aphrodite of Cnidus. Accused of impiety, she was unveiled by the orator Hyperides before the judges of the Areopagus who acquitted her because of her beauty. Pradier, who wanted to be the worthy heir of Praxiteles, sculpted her figure in Parian marble which he enhanced with polychromy and gold, of which some traces remain on the edge of the drapery. Inspired as much by the Greek sculptor's Diana of Gabii as by the nymphs of Goujon's Fountain of the Innocents or Ingres' Venus Anadyomene, Pradier achieves a subtle balance of volumes and lines, the tight folds of the drapery highlighting the fluid and ample forms of the female body. The suspended gesture, the inclination of the head and the slight contrapposto lend Phryne a reserve and an internalized grace that instill doubt: is she veiling or unveiling herself?