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Vénus sortant du bain - Bronze signed Allegrain, cast by Barbedienne
France, 19th century
After Christophe-Gabriel Allegrain (1710-1795)
Barbedienne cast - Collas mechanical reduction stampHeight: 56 cm
A delicate embodiment of classical grace and sensuality, this patinated bronze sculpture represents Venus emerging from the bath, in the suspended moment when the goddess, modest and haughty, bends over to wipe her foot. The gesture is simple, yet infinitely poetic, imbued with an almost meditative gentleness.
Inspired by the famous marble commissioned by Madame de Pompadour and presented at the Salon of 1767 - now preserved in the Louvre - this work is here superbly edited in the 19th century by the prestigious Barbedienne firm, using the Collas mechanical reduction technique, a guarantee of finesse and fidelity to the original model.
The bronze is finely chased, enhanced by a warm patina with bronze highlights that underline the roundness of the forms, the delicacy of the drapery and the fluid elegance of the composition. Venus's wavy hair, the stylized rock and the play of shadows on the skin testify to the exceptional craftsmanship of the Barbedienne workshops.
A collector's piece, both classic and sensual, evoking the eternal canons of feminine beauty and the refinement of 18th-century French art brilliantly revisited in the 19th century.
Signatures and marks:
- On the base: C.G. Allegrain fecit - 1767
- On the terrace: F. Barbedienne Fondeur
- Round stamp: Réduction Mécanique A. Collas Breveté
Ref: 4HRK21DY6A