Mid 19th Century French Empire Patinated Bronze Sculpture of a Group of Boys and Amphoras by Auguste Moreau

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French Empire patinated bronze sculpture of a group of boys and amphoras by Auguste Moreau

By: Auguste Moreau
Material: bronze, … Read more French Empire patinated bronze sculpture of a group of boys and amphoras by Auguste Moreau

By: Auguste Moreau
Material: bronze, copper, metal
Technique: patinated, cast, carved, polished, molded, metalwork
Dimensions: 6.5 in x 5 in x 6 in
Date: mid to late 19th century
Style: Empire, Belle Époque, Neoclassicism, Revival
Place of origin: France

This mid-to-late 19th century patinated bronze sculpture depicts a trio of playful boys interacting with a grouping of amphora-shaped vessels. Created by the french artist Auguste Moreau (1834-1917), it exemplifies the Empire and Belle Époque styles, with influences from neoclassicism and historical revivalism. Moreau was known for his bronze works featuring figural tableaus. As a sculptor working in the late 19th century, he embraced both nationalist and classical themes popular at the time. This sculpture's patinated bronze medium and depiction of youthful figures references antiquity, while its Empire style connects it to the Napoleonic nationalist moment in french history.

Balancing dynamism and decorativeness, the amphoras provide a sturdy base for the active, twisting boys who clamber over them. Moreau's mastery of bronze is evident in the work's fine details and emotive poses.

The artist's signature can be found engraved on the base of one of the amphora vessels. See less