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Mid Century Expressionist Nude Male Acephale Sculpture in Bronze.

1960s

About the Item

French Mid 20th Century bronze figure of a man presented on an iron 'tige' and marble base. The sculpture is not signed but was purchased from Nice, France, in the 1970s as a work by 'Franta'. it is however reminiscent of other artists of this period. The modelling is wonderfully executed and one can feel the fingers and hands of the artist in the material. The bronze has been beautifully patinated and has a wonderful colour and texture. The work is almost 'zoomorphic' in the way the artist has handled the shoulders and lower torso of the acrobatic figure. Franta is one of the leading representatives of the European post-war wave of New Figuration, which responded to a deep crisis of human values and feelings of alienation. It represents a radical break from realistic representation and interprets the artist's inner reflection in confrontation with the social and existential catastrophes of modern times. He became one of the few Czech artists who have stood out on the world art scene and his importance in France can be ranked alongside names such as Alphonse Mucha, František Kupka, Josef Šíma and Jiří Kolář.
  • Creation Year:
    1960s
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 21.5 in (54.61 cm)Width: 7 in (17.78 cm)Depth: 3.75 in (9.53 cm)
  • Medium:
  • Movement & Style:
  • Circle Of:
    Frantisek Mertl dit 'Franta' (1930, Czechoslovakian)
  • Period:
  • Condition:
  • Gallery Location:
    Cotignac, FR
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: LG/Franta/Torso.1stDibs: LU143029460292

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