Sculpture - Harlequin , Henri Emile Allouard (1844 - 1929) - Bronze

An important bronze sculpture with a brown patina , depicting "Harlequin" an emblematic character of the Commedia dell'arte , by the sculptor Henri Emile Allouard, known as "Henri Allouard".
The sculptor captured the essence of the theatrical muse , symbolizing both joy and melancholy , recurring themes in his work .
The sculpture bears the sculptor's signature "H. Allouard" , followed by the circular stamp of Maison Colin , foundry and publisher , impressed on the base .
Antique bronze , early 20th century , circa 1910 .
In perfect condition , both in terms of preservation and patina .

Harlequin , a character both playful and poignant , plays an essential role in theatrical plots .
Cunning and shrewd , she skillfully navigates between social classes , which gives her a certain psychological depth .
Rebellious and a figure of freedom , she serves as a contrast to more rigid characters .
Harlequin is both a figure of desire and escapism .

Harlequin's importance extends beyond the theater : she has become a symbol of performance art , inspiring various forms of spectacle and artistic expression .
In contemporary popular culture , her image is reinterpreted , testifying to her longevity and enduring appeal .
Harlequin , through her blend of lightness and complexity , remains a fascinating and unforgettable character .

Henri Emile ALLOUARD (1844 - 1929)

Henri Emile Allouard , known as "Henri Allouard" , was a French sculptor , medalist and painter , born in Paris in the former 10th arrondissement , on July 11, 1844 .

A disciple of Alexandre Schoenewerk and Eugene-Louis Lequesne , Henri Allouard exhibited at the Salon of French Artists from 1865 to 1928 .
He came to sculpture relatively late , having worked as a bookseller until 1872 before being able to support himself through his art. From 1889 , he served on the jury for sculpture and decorative arts at the Salon .
Participating in various Universal Expositions , beginning with that of 1889 , he won the gold medal in 1900 .
Known for his combinations of polychrome marbles and bronze , he also worked with terracotta and precious metals .
He is representative of the Neo-Baroque sculpture movement .

Also a painter and pastel artist , he practiced the genres of history painting , landscape , and still life .
He created the painted decorations for the Pantheon , the Opera , and the Paris City Hall .
In 1904 , he was president of the Parisians of Paris association .
Henri Allouard was also involved in the volunteer classes at the Normal School of Drawing Instruction , known as the Normal School of Vavin street , located at number 19 on that street .
His studio was located at number 28 bis rue Vavin .

He is buried in Paris at the "Pere-Lachaise Cemetery" .