French Classical Bronze Figure of a Maiden

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This imposing 19th-century French bronze figure of a classical maiden, likely an allegory for La Source (The Spring) or L’Eau … Read more This imposing 19th-century French bronze figure of a classical maiden, likely an allegory for La Source (The Spring) or L’Eau (Water), is a magnificent example of the Academic style popular in the mid-to-late 1800s. While signed P.E. Macault, this is almost certainly a variation of the celebrated French sculptor Paul Émile Machault (1800-1866). Machault’s work, which often featured mythological and allegorical maidens, captured the period’s taste for romanticized classicism. The figure, draped in flowing classical robes and holding a vessel (pitcher or amphora), is a classic motif that would have originally served as a grand salon centerpiece or, possibly, a fountain component. It is executed in patinated bronze with a dark, rich, and handsome patina commensurate with age. We note the signature is clearly visible on the integral base.
The large scale and subject matter make this a powerful decorative statement.

This is piped for a fountain piece but it hasn’t been tested. A great centerpiece for a classical garden. See less