Albert-ernest Carrier-belleuse, Neapolitan Dancer With A Lute, Bronze, Late 19th–early 20th Century

A patinated bronze sculpture depicting a smiling, half-clothed young man wearing a hat, performing a dance step while holding a lute. It rests on a circular base made of griotte marble.

Intaglio-signed “A. CARRIER BELLEUSE” on the pediment.
Stamp of the foundry Jollet & Cie on the side of the pedestal.

Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse (1824–1887) was a French sculptor, particularly renowned during the Second Empire. Trained at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris under the tutelage of David d’Angers, he began exhibiting at the Salon in 1851. After serving as director of the modeling and drawing school at Mintons in England, he returned to Paris, where he caught the attention of Napoleon III. In addition to busts of prominent figures of the time, he created numerous decorative works inspired in particular by the Italian Renaissance and the 18th century. He also collaborated with the silversmiths Christofle and Froment-Meurice to create limited-edition pieces, took part in the construction of the Opéra Garnier, and became director of artistic works at the Sèvres Porcelain Manufactory in 1875. Many great names in sculpture passed through his studio, including Dalou, Falguière, and Rodin.

Some signs of oxidation.
Good overall condition.
Dates from the late 19th century.

Dimensions:
H: 45.5 cm (including base) – 42 cm (sculpture only)
L: 18.5 cm
W: 18 cm
D: 13 cm (base)