Large Antique-style Bronze Sculpture Depicting The Muse "euterpe," Stamped "susse Frères," France, 19th Century.

A large neoclassical bronze group depicting "Euterpe," the Greek muse of lyric poetry and music.
The muse, dressed in an ancient-style tunic with regular folds, leans against a pillar decorated with a floral frieze. She is turned slightly to the left, one hand holding an aule (an ancient flute) made of gilded bronze, the other hand raised in a gesture of recitation. That hand likely originally held a second flute, which was simply slipped between her fingers, as there are no rivet holes or fastenings to hold it in place—which might explain its disappearance.  This remains a hypothesis, as the piece is superb as it is and the whole composition is perfectly coherent.
This allegorical composition is inspired by the famous “Borghese Aphrodite,” which was rediscovered and restored as “Euterpe” in the 17th century. This sculpture is currently displayed on the Charles X Staircase at the Louvre Museum.
Our bronze has retained its two original patinas: a medal patina for the figure and a gilded bronze patina for the flute. On the side facing the terrace, it bears the stamp and hallmark of the renowned foundry “Susse Frères,” founded in Paris in 1758 and still a guarantee of exceptional craftsmanship in casting, attention to detail, and patina...
A beautifully proportioned French piece, 42 cm tall, and in superb condition.
This sculpture is a Parisian work dating from the first half of the 19th century.
Note: Shipping to France is available via Colissimo with tracking and insured delivery requiring a signature: 50 euros. Shipping to other destinations available upon request.