Pair Of Silver-plated Bronze Children—allegory Of “winter,” Restoration Period

A charming and rare pair of bronze children, likely originally silver-plated, resting on architecturally styled bases of chiseled and gilded bronze. French work from the first half of the 11th century, likely from the period

Restored around 1820–1840.

Designed as a pair, the two figures form a touching allegory of Winter.

The first depicts a young girl wearing a hood, wrapped in a loose-fitting cloak, and holding out her numb hands toward an invisible source of warmth. The second depicts a young boy sitting with his legs drawn up, clutching his cloak close to his body to protect himself from the cold.

The sculptor has rendered the postures and expressions of the two children with great sensitivity: serious faces, slightly melancholic gazes, slightly parted lips, and spontaneous gestures convey the harshness of winter with remarkable naturalness.

The cast is of fine quality and is distinguished by particularly meticulous chiseling. The strands of hair, the eyes, the fingers, the folds of the coats, and the anatomical details have been refined with precise cold-working.

The bronzes feature a dark patina with brown and silvery hues. The protruding parts reveal what appear to be remnants of an old silver plating, creating subtle contrasts with the gilded bronze bases.

The square, molded, and slightly flared bases enhance the decorative character of this elegant pair. The ensemble still bears the hallmarks of the taste and grace of 18th-century French sculpture.

A pair full of charm, remarkable for the quality of its modeling, the finesse of its chiseling, and above all for the deeply endearing expressiveness of the two children.

Period: first half of the 19th century, probably around 1820–1840

Probable origin: French work

Material: patinated bronze, probably formerly silver-plated, and gilded bronze

Condition: beautiful antique condition; normal wear and tear on the patinas and gilding. No stamps or signatures visible in the photographs.

Height: 17.5 cm

Dimensions of each base: 10 x 11 cm

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