Antonin Larroux “les Moissons” 1899 Large Patinated Bronze Vase

Provenance

Important sculptural bronze vase signed A. Larroux, after Antonin Larroux, a French sculptor active in the late 19th and early 20th century. The work bears the title Les Moissons and the date 1899. It also carries a foundry stamp visible on the body, readable as Siot-Decauville, Paris, a Parisian foundry associated with bronze editions of this period. The subject belongs to the naturalistic and rural vocabulary of French Belle Époque sculpture, where agricultural labour is treated not only as a genre scene, but also as an allegory of fertility, abundance and human labour.

Description

The vase is formed with a broad rounded body, surmounted by a richly sculpted figural composition in high relief and full round. Three peasant figures are arranged around the central circular opening. A standing male figure, bare-chested, raises a vessel above his head in a strong vertical movement. A kneeling female figure bends forward toward the sheaves, gathering ears of wheat, while a seated woman nurses a child. Together, these figures create a coherent iconographic programme centred on harvest, nourishment, maternity and the cycle of rural life.

The vegetal decoration is especially detailed. Sheaves of wheat, ears, textured ground and irregular reliefs cover the surface of the body, creating a strong contrast between the smoother modelling of the figures and the more rugged treatment of the harvested crop. The composition is both functional and sculptural: the central opening allows the object to be used as a decorative vase or jardinière, while the figural treatment gives it the presence of a table sculpture.

Technique and materials

Patinated bronze with golden and brown tonal variations, with natural oxidation visible in recessed areas. The modelling is detailed, particularly in the figures, gestures, drapery, hair and vegetal textures. The signature, date and foundry stamp are visible on the object.

Dating

France, 1899, according to the inscription on the piece. The naturalistic treatment, rural subject and quality of casting correspond to French decorative bronze production of the late 19th century, within the broader Belle Époque context.

Condition

Good overall condition, with age-related wear, rubbing, small surface marks, patina variations and old oxidation, consistent with the age and material. The decoration, figures, signature and foundry stamp remain clearly legible.

Function and display

A large decorative object suitable for use as a vase, jardinière or central sculptural piece. Its agricultural and allegorical subject makes it particularly appropriate for a classical interior, library, gallery setting or collection of late 19th-century French bronzes.

Dimensions

total height with figure – 53 cm
vase height – 32 cm
diameter – 40 cm