Important Bronze Bust Of Diane De Poitiers With Two Patinas, Cast By F. Barbedienne.

Important Bronze Bust of Diane de Poitiers with a Medal Patina – F. Barbedienne Foundry. Fluted Black Marble Base. Height: 59 cm. This superb and imposing bronze bust with a medal patina depicts Diane de Poitiers, an emblematic figure of the French Renaissance and favorite of King Henry II. The quality of execution is remarkable: a face of great gentleness, a lowered gaze imbued with nobility, delicate modeling of the features, and refined treatment of the hair, which is raised beneath a sumptuous, richly ornamented Renaissance diadem. The details of the hair decoration—crown, ribbons, and symbolic attributes—are of exceptional finesse. The bronze displays a beautiful, nuanced, deep, and warm medal patina, highlighting the volumes and the subtlety of the modeling. The piece is signed F. Barbedienne Foundry, a prestigious 19th-century Parisian foundry renowned for the quality of its art castings and for its collaborations with leading sculptors. The circular stamp visible on the reverse confirms the authenticity of the edition. The bust rests on an elegant, fluted black marble base with an octagonal shape, reinforcing its monumental and architectural character. At 59 cm tall, this piece makes a strong decorative statement, ideal for a library, study, console table, or collector's home. In very good condition, with a uniform patina, the piece is harmonious and balanced. An emblematic example of 19th-century historicist taste, it combines Renaissance elegance with the excellence of French casting.