Bronze Sculpture By Antoine-louis Barye, The Three Graces, Marble, 19th Century

A bronze sculpture with a brown patina depicting the Three Graces, signed Barye for Antoine-Louis Barye*, on a black marble base, dating from the 19th century. This sculpture is in good overall condition. Signed on the base. It is a cast from the Barye workshop (circa 1857-1875), the model dating from 1840. A similar example is held at the Louvre Museum (RF 3030). Note: micro-chips and light scratches on the marble base, some soiling and small scratches on the bronze, signs of age, see photos. *Antoine Louis Barye (1795-1875): Son of a Parisian goldsmith, Antoine-Louis Barye (1795-1875) began his apprenticeship in an engraver's workshop and then with the goldsmith Bicunais, where he learned all aspects of metalwork, from casting to chasing. From this rigorous apprenticeship, he retained the mark in the precision of his line and the sharpness of his drawing. In 1816, he entered the workshop of the sculptor Bosio, then in 1823, that of Fauconnier, goldsmith to the Duchess of Angoulême; there he was already modeling small animal figurines. He then studied living nature at the Jardin des Plantes, observing the posture and movement of animals and even frequenting the anatomy amphitheater. Breaking with the long tradition of Western sculpture, which most often saw animals only as decorative motifs, Barye became interested in the animals themselves, carefully studying their anatomy. Not highly regarded by official circles, Barye ceased exhibiting at the Salon after 1837. But wealthy patrons, such as the Duke of Orléans, were interested in his unacademic art, and the bronze editions of his small-format works ensured his success with a wide public. Highly regarded artist on ArtPrice. Dimensions: Base diameter 11.2 cm, Height 21.6 cm. 810 293. All photos are available at: www.antiques-delaval.com