SCULPTURE - THE SHEPHERD’S STAR , HENRI - LOUIS LEVASSEUR (1853-1934)- BRONZE

Important bronze , depicting an allegory of the planet "Venus"  traditionally known as "THE SHEPHERD’S STAR" , the first star visible at dusk and the last to fade at dawn , by the french sculptor Henri-Louis Levasseur (1853–1934) .
This iconic work by the artist depicts "Venus" as a strikingly beautiful young woman , personifying the night or the dawn .
The female figure , captured in a fluid and graceful movement , holds in her right hand a curved bow that wraps around behind her , symbolizing the crescent of the moon . In her other hand , she holds aloft a golden star evoking "THE SHEPHERD’S STAR".
The work reflects a refined artistic sensibility and is characteristic of the Art Nouveau style , with its fluid forms and expressions imbued with sensitivity.
The sculptor’s signature "H. Levasseur", is engraved on the richly chiseled , naturalistic oval pedestal .
Sculpture dating from the early 20th century, Art Nouveau .
Excellent condition and patina .

Height : 87 cm


HENRI LOUIS LEVASSEUR (1853–1934)

Henri Louis Levasseur was a French sculptor emblematic of the Art Nouveau movement , renowned for his female portraits imbued with sensuality and delicacy .                                                                     
Specializing in decorative sculpture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries , his work lies between naturalistic realism and sculptural academicism , without any avant-garde experimentation .

Born in Paris , Henri-Louis Levasseur learned the principles of classical sculpture before turning to the more organic and stylized forms characteristic of Art Nouveau .
Influenced by artists such as Auguste Rodin , he successfully incorporated movement and emotion into his works .
His career truly took off in the late 19th century , a period during which he exhibited his work at the "Exhibition of French Artists".

The sculptor created numerous busts and statues , highlighting femininity in its various facets .
His works , often in plaster or bronze , are distinguished by their refinement and attention to detail , capturing not only the physical beauty of his models but also their spiritual essence .
Among his most famous works is "La Femme au serpent" , a piece that perfectly illustrates his unique style .

Henri-Louis Levasseur received numerous awards for his work , cementing his status as a master sculptor in the late 19th century .                 
Exhibition of French Artists : Honorable Mention (1882), 3rd-Class Medal (1885), 2nd-Class Medal (1888) .                                   World’s Fair : Bronze Medal (1889), First-Class Medal (1898), Silver Medal (1900) .          
His legacy endures , embodying the innovative and aesthetic spirit of his time .

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