Chryselephantine Sculpture - Carrier - Mulhembeck - France - 19th Century

Art Nouveau Chryselephantine Sculpture – Water Carrier – Bronze and Ivory – Late 19th Century. An elegant chryselephantine sculpture depicting a young water carrier in a naturalistic style characteristic of Art Nouveau. The figure, finely modeled in gilt and nuanced brown bronze, is distinguished by the quality of the drapery, with its supple and fluid lines, typical of the 1900 aesthetic. The face and the exposed parts of the arms are made of ivory, bringing contrast, softness, and refinement to the whole—an emblematic technique of chryselephantine sculpture, highly prized at this time. The young woman carries a yoke resting on her shoulders, from which two bronze buckets are suspended by metal chains, creating a subtle effect of movement. The delicate and serene expression on her face testifies to the quality of the work. It bears the artist's signature "MULHEMBECK" on the lower part of the dress. The work rests on an elegantly carved, veined marble base, highlighting the nobility of the materials. A refined and sought-after decorative piece, representative of 19th-century artistic production, at the crossroads of naturalism and Art Nouveau. Period: 19th century Style: Art Nouveau Technique: Chryselephantine sculpture Materials: Patinated bronze, ivory, marble Condition: Good overall condition, beautiful antique patina, wear consistent with age, a few damaged fingers. A collector's item, ideal for enthusiasts of 1900s sculptures and objets d'art combining bronze and ivory.