Late 19th Century Napoleon III 'Vieille Garde' Sculpture With Inkwells and Marble Base Inkstand by Armand Le Véel and Susse Frères, France

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Late 19th century Napoleon III 'Vieille Garde' sculpture with inkwells and marble base inkstand by Armand Le Véel and Susse … Read more Late 19th century Napoleon III 'Vieille Garde' sculpture with inkwells and marble base inkstand by Armand Le Véel and Susse Frères, France

By: Armand Le Véel, Susse Frères
Material: bronze, copper, tin, metal, stone, marble
Technique: cast, molded, gilt, polished, metalwork
Dimensions: 19.75 in x 10.25 in x 14.25 in
Date: late 19th century
Style: Napoleon III, Empire
Place of origin: France

A distinguished example of French Napoléon III design, this inkstand combines the artistry of sculptor Armand Le Véel with the fine bronze casting of Susse Frères. The central gilt bronze figure portrays a soldier of the Vieille Garde—the elite Imperial Guard formed by veteran grenadiers—standing at rest with his musket, rendered with remarkable attention to uniform details such as the epaulettes, crossbelt, and the tall bonnet à poil (bearskin hat) emblematic of Napoleonic regalia. The soldier’s poised stance and expression convey both discipline and solemn dignity, hallmarks of Le Véel’s sculptural language.

The composition rests upon a richly veined dark green marble base adorned with gilded bronze mounts including laurel garlands and winged ornaments, motifs closely associated with the Empire aesthetic. Two circular lidded inkwells in gilt bronze flank the figure, their finely chased decoration harmonizing with the rest of the ensemble. The base is supported by bronze lion paw feet, enhancing the sense of balance and grandeur.

Both the sculpture's title and the founder’s signatures are inscribed on the base, attesting to the collaboration between Armand Le Véel (1821–1905), renowned for his historical subjects, and the esteemed Susse Frères foundry, celebrated for the precision and refinement of its bronze work throughout the 19th century. See less