Two-tone Biscuit Porcelain Figure By Letu & Mauger, Leda And The Swan, 19th Century, Celadon & White

Magnificent large two-tone hard-paste porcelain biscuit porcelain figure, stamped under the base L&M and numbered 59, manufactured by Letu & Mauger, L'Isle-Adam, Val-d'Oise, France. Antique, 19th century, circa 1860–1890. The figure depicts Leda, daughter of Thestius, wife of Tyndareus, King of Sparta, accompanied by Zeus in the form of a swan. This mythological subject, taken from the Metamorphoses, is entitled "Leda and the Swan." It is executed in dark celadon and matte white, a rather unusual color combination for this figure, which is more frequently rendered in pale blue and white with more areas of white biscuit porcelain, particularly on the figure. This may be a workshop trial piece. The sculpting is of fine quality, with delicate drapery, careful anatomy, and the elegant movement of the bird.

Approximately 35 cm high, 20 cm wide and deep. In very good overall condition, the swan's head has been professionally restored, resulting in a very clean and discreet display. Also noteworthy is a small, non-penetrating hair under the base, invisible and inconsequential. Approximately 2-3 kg.