Antique 19thC French Bronze Monkey Match Holder Signed Fratin

Details

Description

Rare finely cast bronze figural match holder/match strike by the celebrated French 19thc master animalier sculptor Christophe Fratin (1801–1864). Singe … Read more Rare finely cast bronze figural match holder/match strike by the celebrated French 19thc master animalier sculptor Christophe Fratin (1801–1864). Singe au portefaix assis sur une fontaine.
This whimsical, sculpture depicts a hat-less monkey sitting on a classic Parisian public water fountain, gripping a walking stick with a wicker pannier basket on his back meant for holding match sticks.
The front of the architectural fountain features the relief of a sailing ship on waves (Paris coat of arms).
Original multi-toned brownish-green patina, sand-cast construction, with period hand-forged square nut fastener on the underside.
Crisply stamped "FRATIN" on the naturalistic base, this piece features the coveted reversed "N" tool error.
Dimensions:
5.56 " tall x 3.875" wide x 3.125"d (14cm x9.8cm x 8cm)
Condition:
Excellent, no cracks, unaltered antique condition. See less