Mid-19th Century French Bronze Bacchic Group of Putti and Goat, After Clodion, Attributed to Henri Picard

Details

Description

Summary
Substantial French gilt bronze Bacchic group of two putti and a long-haired goat, modeled in the Rococo spirit after … Read more Summary
Substantial French gilt bronze Bacchic group of two putti and a long-haired goat, modeled in the Rococo spirit after Clodion. One child rides astride the rearing goat while the other restrains it with a rope; a violin, bow and theatrical mask rest on the rocky base among vines and foliage. The composition corresponds closely to documented examples signed by Henri Picard, one of the leading Paris bronziers of the mid-19th century.

Dating and Background Information
The style of modeling, vigorous Rococo movement, and highly worked base relate directly to another known example stamped “HPICARD” on the underside of the base and dated to the 1850s.

That piece is described as a French Rococo-style group of cherubs and goat, with the base modeled after a similar sculpture by Claude Michel Clodion (1738–1814), and notes Picard’s collaborations with the clockmaker Raingo Frères.

Provenance enhances the story: this bronze comes from the collection of Arvin Spell of Covington, Georgia, a respected dealer and collector whose antebellum residence, Boxwood, has been documented for its important assemblage of Federal antiques and Napoleonic material.

Collector Notes
This is a heavy, finely cast bronze, not spelter or a light later reproduction. The fur of the goat is rendered in deep, flame-like locks; the putti have well-articulated faces, fingers and toes; and the base is busy with grapes, leaves, mask and violin—hallmarks of quality Paris foundry work. The patina is a warm, slightly mottled gilt/bronze tone consistent with age, with subtle highlights on the highest points from handling.

Unsigned examples of this model occupy a very desirable lane: recognizably related to Picard’s oeuvre and to Clodion’s Bacchic vocabulary, with very strong decorative and collecting appeal, but more approachable than a fully signed, perfectly documented masterpiece. For collectors of French 19th-century bronzes, Rococo revival sculpture, or Picard / Clodion material, this is a serious, furniture-scale statement piece.

Decorating Ideas
The scale and horizontal spread make this an ideal centerpiece for a console, commode, or large mantel. It anchors a room on its own or flanks a mirror, clock or painting beautifully. The playful Bacchic subject makes it especially suitable for a dining room, library, music room or bar area. It pairs well with Louis XV–Louis XVI–style furniture, Napoleon III décor, or even with more contemporary interiors where a single rich, sculptural object provides contrast and depth.

Dimensions
Height: 15 1/4 inches
Width: 16 inches
Depth: 6 1/2 inches

Condition
Very good antique condition. The casting is crisp and the patina presents well, with expected minor rubbing and small handling wear to high points and edges. No losses, breaks or visible repairs are noted. However, one attachment, a chalice, is missing. The base sits solidly and the group reads cleanly from all angles. Normal minor surface marks and age-related patina variations are present and consistent with mid-19th-century French bronzes.

About David Anthony
David Anthony is an established antiques and interiors dealer offering the public fine merchandise for fine interior decorating. See less