Bronze Sculpture "Get Up" After Georges Petit de Chemellier, 20th Century

Details

Description

Bronze Sculpture "Get Up" After Georges Petit de Chemellier, 20th Century

Bronze Sculpture "Get Up" After Georges Petit de Chemellier, … Read more Bronze Sculpture "Get Up" After Georges Petit de Chemellier, 20th Century

Bronze Sculpture "Get Up" After Georges Petit de Chemellier, 20th Century. This charming bronze faithfully reproduces one of the most beloved genre sculptures by French sculptor Georges Petit de Chemellier (1859–1937), whose lively depictions of everyday life and theatrical subjects earned recognition at the Paris Salon during the Belle Époque. While unsigned and produced as a later 20th-century cast, the sculpture captures the grace, humor, and movement that characterize Chemellier's original composition.

The work portrays a youthful circus or street performer holding a steel performance hoop while issuing the command "Get Up" to his faithful poodle. Balanced on its hind legs with front paws raised, the dog eagerly anticipates its next trick, creating an engaging dialogue between trainer and companion. Rather than depicting a grand historical or allegorical subject, Chemellier celebrated the simple humanity of everyday entertainment, elevating a fleeting performance into a finely observed sculptural narrative.

The contrast between the smooth, highly polished modeling of the acrobat's figure and the richly textured curls of the poodle demonstrates the sculptor's sensitivity to surface and form. The composition is further strengthened by the circular hoop, which frames the interaction and creates a pleasing sense of rhythm and movement. Beneath the figures, the geometric patterned base evokes the flooring of a stage or performance platform, reinforcing the theatrical setting.

Standing 15 inches high on a 7 x 5 inch base, this handsome bronze displays a warm chocolate brown patina with subtle highlights that accentuate the sculptural modeling. A delightful decorative bronze that embodies the charm and optimism of Belle Époque French sculpture, it offers timeless appeal for collectors of animalier works, genre bronzes, and nineteenth-century French-inspired decorative arts.

Dimensions: 15 in. H × 7 in. W × 5 in. D.

Condition: Very good overall condition with an attractive aged patina and minor surface wear consistent with age and handling. Unsigned 20th-century cast after the original model by Georges Petit de Chemellier. See less