Rare Vintage 2003 Guilloume Perez Empathy Bronze Sculpture Limited Edition 4/18

Details

Description

An exquisite and rare 2003 original bronze sculpture titled "Empathy" by the internationally acclaimed, Colombian-born American master sculptor Guilloume (Guilloume … Read more An exquisite and rare 2003 original bronze sculpture titled "Empathy" by the internationally acclaimed, Colombian-born American master sculptor Guilloume (Guilloume Perez). This striking piece is a premier example of his signature style, "Bolismo," which utilizes fluid, minimalist, and rounded forms devoid of specific facial features to focus purely on the raw, universal emotions of human connection and intimacy.

Cast in solid bronze, this specific sculpture comes from an incredibly low, highly exclusive limited edition run of only 18 pieces (numbered 4/18), making it a true investment-grade acquisition for fine art collectors.

Design & Patina
Standing at a commanding 16.5 inches tall, the sculpture features a rich, luminous warm-brown patina that showcases magnificent depth, catching ambient light beautifully across its smooth contours. The figures are beautifully balanced, making it a sophisticated, calming statement piece perfect for a luxury living room, mid-century modern office, upscale entryway console, or library shelving.

Key elements and meaning behind this piece:

​Artistic Style: Bolismo

​The term "Bolismo" refers to Guilloume’s use of round, organic forms (from the Spanish bola, meaning ball or sphere). He intentionally avoids defining facial features or specific physical details.

​Universal Humanity: By leaving the faces blank, he removes the barriers of age, race, and individual identity. This allows the viewer to see themselves or their loved ones in the figures.

​Emotional Movement: The focus shifts from "who" the people are to "how" they are interacting. The tilt of the heads and the placement of the arm convey a deep sense of connection.

​The Symbolism of "Empathy"
​In this specific piece, the composition highlights the core of human support:

​The Gesture: One figure rests an arm around the other, a universal sign of comfort and "walking with" someone through their experience.

​The Hats: Wide-brimmed hats are a signature motif in Guilloume’s work. While they add a touch of style, they also serve to ground the figures and emphasize the downward, thoughtful tilt of their heads.

​The Contrast in Patina: The two figures often feature different finishes (as seen in your photo with the earthy brown and the textured grey/sage). This represents two distinct individuals coming together to share a single emotional space.

​About the Artist
​Guilloume was born in Colombia in 1957 and moved to the United States in 1985. His work is centered on the idea that humans are social beings who find their greatest happiness in relationships—whether as lovers, friends, or family.

​His sculptures are typically cast in bronze using the lost-wax process, and he often applies unique patinas to ensure that even within a numbered edition, each piece feels like a one-of-a-kind expression. See less