« La Baigneuse » ou « La Nymphe prenant son bain » (1757)

About the Item

Étienne-Maurice Falconet (1716-1791), "The Bather" or "The Nymph Bathing" (1757) Artistic Explanation: The Nymph Bathing is a masterpiece of 18th-century French sculpture, created by Étienne-Maurice Falconet in 1757. This bronze statue depicts a nude young woman in a graceful and natural pose, captured in an intimate moment as she enters her bath. Pose and Expression: The nymph is depicted in a fluid, natural pose, leaning slightly forward as if gathering or setting down a cloth. This posture highlights the elegant curves and anatomical details of the female form, celebrating natural beauty and grace. Details and Textures: The texture of the drapery and the subtle details of the hair and skin are beautifully rendered, demonstrating Falconet's mastery of bronzework. The interplay of light on the polished bronze surface adds a vibrant and realistic dimension to the sculpture. Symbolism: The choice to depict a nymph, a mythological figure often associated with nature and water, reflects the influence of classical and mythological themes in 18th-century art. It attests to the period's interest in antiquity and the ideals of classical beauty. Historical Context: - Period: The sculpture was created in 1757, a period when the Rococo style was flourishing in France. This style is characterized by its elegance, refinement, and a penchant for graceful and delicate subjects. - Style: While Falconet is often associated with the Rococo style, this work shows a transition towards a more Neoclassical style, with a simplicity and purity of form that foreshadows future artistic trends. - Patronage: The work was commissioned by the financier and collector Ange Laurent Lalive de Jully, demonstrating the interest of the elite at the time in classical art and culture. The Bronze Caster: The exceptional quality of the casting of this sculpture is the result of the work of a skilled bronze caster. At that time, casters often worked closely with sculptors to create high-quality pieces. Renowned casters of this period included workshops such as Jean-Baptiste Claude Odiot or the Keller brothers, although specific documentation on the caster of this work is not always available. Museum Collections: Examples of The Nymph Bathing can be found in several prestigious museums, including: • The Louvre Museum in Paris, which has a rich collection of 18th-century French sculptures. • The Museum of Fine Arts in Lyon, where one can also admire other works by Falconet and his contemporaries. • The Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg. Symbolism of the Work: The Nymph Bathing symbolizes both ideals of beauty and purity, the intimate relationship between humans and nature, and the stylistic transitions in 18th-century art. It embodies the decorative and elegant elements of the Rococo while anticipating the simplicity and grandeur of Neoclassicism. The nymph represents the ideal of female beauty in the classical tradition, purity, innocence, and a connection to nature and mythological elements. Link to the Daughter of Madame de Pompadour: It is interesting to note that Falconet was supported by Madame de Pompadour, the mistress of Louis XV and a great patron of the arts. The daughter of Madame de Pompadour, Alexandrine Le Normant d'Étiolles, died young, and Falconet may have found some inspiration in the youth and beauty of this child, as well as in the influence of her mother, to create works imbued with grace and tenderness. Biography of Étienne-Maurice Falconet: Étienne-Maurice Falconet (1716-1791) was a French sculptor renowned for his refined and elegant works. He was trained at the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture and worked under the direction of the famous sculptor Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne. Falconet quickly gained recognition for his graceful sculptures and portraits. Career: In 1757, Falconet was appointed director of the sculpture workshop at the Manufacture de Sèvres, where he influenced many young artists. In 1766, he was invited by Catherine II of Russia to work at the imperial court in Saint Petersburg, where he created his most famous work, The Bronze Horseman, a monumental equestrian statue of Peter the Great. Style and Influence: Falconet was a pioneer in the transition from Rococo to Neoclassicism, combining decorative elegance and classical simplicity. His work has had a lasting influence on European sculpture. In summary, The Nymph Bathing is an emblematic work that perfectly illustrates the talent and artistic vision of Falconet, while reflecting the tastes and artistic trends of his time.

Creator:
Étienne Maurice Falconet (Sculptor)
Dimensions:
Height: 19.3 in (49 cm)Width: 7.09 in (18 cm)Depth: 6.7 in (17 cm)
Style:
Baroque (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Bronze
Place of Origin:
France
Period:
1750-1759
Date of Manufacture:
1757
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
Ixelles, BE
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU10116242275272