Phryné par James Pradier

"Phryne" by James Pradier, bronze statuette produced in the second half of the 19th century, after the original marble sculpture presented at the Salon of 1845. The subject being the accusation of impiety in Athens in the 4th century BC. of Phryne notorious courtesan, but her beauty unveiled before her judges contributed to her acquittal. Bronze with original medal patina little worn according to its age, presence of oxidation points and traces of old gilding. Stamp of Susse Frères in Paris and Pradier signature on the base. Jean-Jacques (aka James) Pradier was born in Geneva in 1790, an important figure in 19th century sculpture alongside David d'Angers or François Rude, 1st prize for sculpture in 1813, he stayed at the Académie de France in Rome, his works often inspired by mythology or antiquity will achieve real success, he will also receive great commissions from the French State.