Biscuit Porcelain Bust of a Young Girl from Charles Levy & Co, France, 1880s

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An elegant biscuit porcelain bust created by Charles Levy & Co in Charenton-le-Pont near Paris, representing a refined example of … Read more An elegant biscuit porcelain bust created by Charles Levy & Co in Charenton-le-Pont near Paris, representing a refined example of French decorative sculpture of the last quarter of the 19th century. The work unites the traditions of Neoclassicism and Salon Historicism with subtle elements of Naturalistic Romanticism characteristic of the Belle Époque aesthetic. The composition is conceived in a three-quarter turn, lending the figure pictorial depth and gentle dynamism. The young heroine lowers her gaze toward a flower placed along the neckline. An asymmetrical wreath of daisies, a loosely arranged braid falling over the shoulder, and delicately modeled drapery create a subtle dialogue between academic precision and a freer, almost Impressionistic interpretation of detail. The matte surface of the biscuit porcelain enhances its resemblance to marble sculpture and emphasizes the purity of the modeling. Soft transitions of volume and restrained emotional expression define the sculptural character. The bust rests on a molded base with a cylindrical pedestal, forming a balanced architectural silhouette. Marks: Underglaze blue mark in the form of a six-pointed star, characteristic of Charles Levy & Co, Charenton-le-Pont, circa 1876-1881. Dimensions: Height 47.5 cm. Condition: Good. Light signs of age to the base. See less