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Jean Alexandre Joseph Falguière
Bust of Diana

1882

$9,500
£7,147.87
€8,255.94
CA$13,425.98
A$14,569.23
CHF 7,720.41
MX$178,684.57
NOK 95,539.52
SEK 90,279.79
DKK 61,634.70

About the Item

Among Falguière’s greatest works, his figure of the huntress Diana emerged as a masterpiece, the bust of which stands out as one of the most successful and recognizable idealized heads of the late nineteenth century. Bust of Diana, circa 1882 Signed: A Falguiere on shoulder Marked: Thiebaud Freres Fondeurs Paris (rear of self-base) Bronze 23 1/2 x 14 x 12 3/4 inches (incl marble plinth) These works were popular and thus they were cast in fairly high numbers. Patinas are mostly stupendous. And this retains its original and distinct socle. A captivating juxtaposition is evident when comparing the erotic smooth finish of the complete figure with the jagged and irregular truncation of the bust. This deliberate contrast accentuates the disdainful and haughty expression on the face, adding depth and complexity to the artistic narrative. These two sculptures, the full-figure Diana and the abstracted Head of Diana, not only showcase Falguière's technical dexterity but also exemplify the entrepreneurial spirit pervasive among French sculptors during the nineteenth century. In responding to the burgeoning demand from a growing middle-class market for art, artists like Falguière engaged in a practice of revisiting and reinterpreting their own works. This strategic approach not only sustained their artistic endeavors but also fostered a dynamic interplay between artistic innovation and market dynamics during a transformative period in the history of French sculpture. In 1854, Falguière began his studies at L'École des beaux-arts apprenticing under François Jouffroy. He debuted his artistic talents at the Salon of 1857 and later achieved the esteemed Prix de Rome in 1859. While initially adhering to the Neo-classical style influenced by his education, Falguière's artistic journey underwent a significant evolution. Departing from the idealism of his early training, his new direction garnered both praise and criticism from art critics. In 1887, Falguière presented a marble rendition of the same work at the Salon, which is now housed in the Toulouse Museum.
  • Creator:
    Jean Alexandre Joseph Falguière (1831 - 1900, French)
  • Creation Year:
    1882
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 23.5 in (59.69 cm)Width: 14 in (35.56 cm)Depth: 12.75 in (32.39 cm)
  • Medium:
  • Movement & Style:
  • Period:
  • Condition:
    Fine condition - may be negligible chips and wear to base but ready to enjoy!
  • Gallery Location:
    New York, NY
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU1413214336722

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