Mathurin Moreau - Pair Of Putti Torch Holders In Cast Iron - Val d'Osne Foundry

A rare pair of patinated cast iron sculptures depicting two draped putti in the antique style, based on models by Mathurin Moreau and produced by the prestigious Val d'Osne foundry in the 19th century. Each figure, of remarkable casting quality, embodies the elegance and grace characteristic of Mathurin Moreau's art: finely modeled faces with youthful features, generously voluminous curly hair, and flowing draperies subtly revealing the roundness of their childlike bodies. One of the putti retains its slender torch, accentuating its verticality and recalling its original function as a light-bearer; the other, presented without this upper element, remains a perfectly balanced counterpart and retains its full sculptural presence. This slight variation underscores the richness of the Val d'Osne editions, where models could be adapted to the decorative needs of patrons. The contrasting patinas, one brown and the other with bronze-green highlights, lend the pieces additional depth and authenticity, accentuating the vibrant character of this pair. The precision of the chasing and the sculptural strength of these figures testify to the exceptional craftsmanship of the Val d'Osne foundry, a leading supplier to the grand residences, gardens, and palaces of Europe. With their captivating decorative presence and timeless charm, this pair of torch-bearing putti perfectly illustrates the virtuosity of 19th-century French art casting and the international renown of Mathurin Moreau.