Henryk Kossowski, Coronation of the Arts Figural Sculpture, 1890, Bronze

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A striking late 19th-century French figural sculpture by the Polish-born artist Henryk Kossowski (1855–1921), entitled Couronnement des Arts (“The Crowning … Read more A striking late 19th-century French figural sculpture by the Polish-born artist Henryk Kossowski (1855–1921), entitled Couronnement des Arts (“The Crowning of the Arts”), dating to circa 1890. The composition presents an allegorical celebration of artistic achievement. A youthful classical male figure stands prominently holding a lyre, while above him a winged female figure descends to bestow a laurel wreath, the traditional symbol of honour, accomplishment and artistic distinction. Around their feet is an elaborate arrangement of attributes associated with the arts and craftsmanship, giving the sculpture considerable narrative and visual richness. Executed in bronzed cast spelter, the work displays accomplished modelling throughout, particularly in the anatomy, flowing drapery, feathered wings and expressive faces. The deep bronze-toned patination creates attractive highlights across the raised surfaces and enhances the sculptural quality of the composition. The work is signed Kossowski and mounted upon a substantial stepped circular base with its titled plaque to the front. Henryk Kossowski was a Polish-born sculptor who worked extensively in Paris and became particularly associated with finely modelled allegorical and figurative sculpture during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. with its impressive height of over 62 cm and dynamic vertical composition, Couronnement des Arts has considerable decorative presence and would make a compelling statement sculpture within a traditional, classical or eclectic interior. The sculpture remains highly presentable for its age. The extended hand/forearm of the winged figure is a replacement, as photographed, and there is general age-related patination, surface wear and variation consistent with an antique sculpture dating from the late 19th century. Artist: Henryk Kossowski (1855–1921) Title: Couronnement des Arts Origin: France Date: Circa 1890 Style: Neoclassical / Academic Material: Bronzed cast spelter Measurements: Height: 62.2 cm (24.5 in.) Width: 34.3 cm (13.5 in.) Depth: 24.1 cm (9.5 in.) See less