"the Childhood Of Bacchus," After Clodion, 19th-century Bronze

Bronze with a brown patina, “The Childhood of Bacchus,” signed on the back “Clodion for Claude Michel” (1738–1814), on a red griotte marble base. Clodion came from a dynasty of sculptors, which immersed him in the artistic world at a very young age; he later studied under Jean-Baptiste Pigalle. In 1759, he won the prestigious Prix de Rome; there, he became fascinated by antiquity, and it was there that his artistic style took shape. His terracotta works quickly gained popularity throughout Europe, so much so that Catherine II attempted to lure him to her court. Upon his return to Paris, having been elected to the Royal Academy, he collaborated with architects, bronze casters, and cabinetmakers on the most prestigious residences of the era—notably creating candelabras and clocks with Pierre Philippe Thomire. After the Revolution, he resumed his career and participated in numerous projects during the First Empire, notably the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. His works are housed in the most prestigious museums around the world.
Our Bacchus, crowned with vine leaves and bunches of grapes, sits on the back of a goat, which he feeds grapes; the scene is full of the charm and tenderness characteristic of the Neoclassical movement that was in vogue at the end of the 18th century.
Good condition, warm patina.
Shipping cost to mainland France: €20. For other destinations, please contact us for an accurate shipping quote.