Gloria Victis A. Mercie Bronze Figure 108 Cm F. Barbedienne

Impressive allegorical group titled “Gloria Victis”, depicting a winged figure—an embodiment of Glory/Victory—supporting a dying warrior. The composition is highly animated (outstretched wings, billowing drapery, strong diagonals) and belongs to the grand French sculptural language associated with the aftermath of the Franco-Prussian War (1870), a context to which this subject is traditionally connected.

After Marius-Jean-Antonin Mercié (1845–1916), a leading sculptor of the French Third Republic. “Gloria Victis” is among his best-known works and was widely issued in bronze by major Parisian foundries at the end of the 19th century.

This example bears the expected marks found on high-quality period editions:

• Artist’s signature: “A. MERCIE” (a spelling commonly encountered on edition bronzes).

• Foundry mark: “F. BARBEDIENNE, Fondeur”.

• Circular “mechanical reduction” stamp associated with the A. Collas process, a hallmark of Barbedienne’s refined serial production, ensuring faithful translation of the model at the given scale.

Cast in bronze with a nuanced brown patina, enhanced with gilt highlights (notably the cuirass and decorative details). The surface shows careful chasing: finely articulated feathers, hair, anatomy, and the ornamental work of the armour.

A late 19th-century cast (circa 1880–1900), consistent with the most sought-after Barbedienne editions bearing the mechanical reduction mark.

A large-scale decorative sculpture intended as a statement piece for a formal interior—library, entrance hall, or collector’s cabinet—where the contrast of patina and gilding enhances depth and readability.

Height: 108 cm
Width: 52 cm
Depth: 64 cm
Base diameter: 17 cm