19th-century Antique Bronze "the Donkey's Cap: Penance" Based On A Work By Nicolas Lecornet

A charming and expressive patinated bronze bust of a child, dating from the late 19th century, depicting a young schoolboy wearing the traditional donkey’s cap, with a sulky and resigned expression.

This composition, known as “The Donkey’s Cap” or “Penance”, is presented after Nicolas Lecornet, a French sculptor from the second half of the 19th century.

The young boy is depicted in a school uniform, his head slightly bowed and his gaze lowered. His cap bears engraved inscriptions recalling the reproaches directed at the poor student. A small medallion hanging from his chest adds to the work’s humorous and narrative character.

The sculpture is distinguished by its fine quality cast bronze, with particularly meticulous detailing of the face, hair, and the folds of the clothing and cap. The antique patina, with its brown and golden hues, pleasantly highlights the reliefs.

The bust rests on a bronze pedestal, which in turn sits on an elegant square black marble base, giving the entire piece a striking decorative presence.

A charming work, typical of the late 19th-century taste for childhood subjects and anecdotal scenes, both decorative and amusing.

Period: 19th century
Subject: The Donkey’s Cap – Penance
Attribution: after Nicolas Lecornet
Material: bronze with brown and gold patina
Base: black marble
Total height: 38 cm
Height of the bronze alone: 32 cm
Base dimensions: 10 × 10 cm

In good overall condition, with patina and signs of wear consistent with its age.

A very attractive and particularly expressive collector’s piece that will easily find its place in a cabinet of curiosities, a library, or a classic interior.