Henry Fugere Art Nouveau-style Bronze Sculpture Of A Mermaid Holding A Shell, 36 Cm

An elegant Art Nouveau decorative sculpture depicting a young nude woman emerging from the waves and holding a large, oblong shell that serves as a bowl or trinket dish, “Coquille, Trouvaille” model, circa 1890–1900.

The composition fully embodies the decorative vocabulary of Art Nouveau, based on curved lines, the movement of water, and the association between the female figure and the marine world. The young woman, depicted nude, appears to rise from the waves in a graceful pose, her body serving both as a sculptural figure and as a support for the large shell. The undulations of her hair, the waves, and the irregular contours of the shell reinforce the organic character of the whole.

The patina plays on two tones: a weathered brown for most of the sculpture and silvery effects highlighting certain reliefs. This contrast highlights the body’s contours, the movement of the water, and the surface of the shell.

The theme of the sea woman, the naiad, and the mermaid underwent significant development in the decorative arts around 1900. It reflects the Symbolist and Art Nouveau taste for female figures associated with natural elements, waves, seashells, and the aquatic world.

Sculpture signed by Fugère. The signature refers to the French sculptor Henry Fugère (1872–1944), who was active in decorative sculpture during the late 19th and first half of the 20th century and created numerous female figures and compositions intended for mass production.

Period: Early 20th century, Art Nouveau period.

Technique/material: Patinated bronze-brown and silver-toned regule.

Dimensions: Height 18 cm; length 36 cm.

Signature: Signed “Fugère.”

Condition: Original condition with wear to the patina, scuffs, and oxidation, visible in the photographs.