"La Sibylle" by Emmanuel Villanis

Beautiful late 19th Century French Art Nouveau bronze bust of a young classical woman wearing a head dress decorated with medallions exhibiting good hand finished surface detail and rich brown and green patina. Titled, signed E Villanis and stamped with Societe des Bronzes foundry seal.

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Height:                                    36 cm

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Condition:                              Excellent Original Condition

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Foundry:                                Societe des Bronzes

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Circa:                                      1890

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Materials:                               Bronze

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Book Ref:                                Emmanuel Villanis by J Hortulanus-de Mik

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Page No:                                 39

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SKU:                                        8254

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ABOUT

In ancient history, the Sibyl was a prophetic woman believed to possess divine insight, delivering oracles inspired by the gods. Originating in Greek tradition and later adopted by the Romans, Sibyls were associated with sacred sites such as Delphi, Cumae, and Erythrae. Unlike the more formally organised priestesses, Sibyls were often solitary figures, speaking in ecstatic or enigmatic verses that required interpretation.

The most famous was the Cumaean Sibyl, who, according to Roman legend, guided Aeneas in the underworld. Sibylline prophecies were highly revered, and in Rome, the Sibylline Books were consulted during times of crisis. Over time, the Sibyl became a symbol of mystery, foresight, and divine connection, influencing both classical and later Renaissance art and literature.

Emmanuel Villanis

Emmanuel Villanis (1858–1914) was an Italian-born sculptor who became one of the most distinctive figures of late 19th-century French decorative sculpture. Born in Lille to Italian parents, he trained in Italy before moving to Paris, where he established his career during the Belle Époque.

Villanis specialised in elegant busts of idealised female figures, often depicting allegorical or poetic subjects such as La Bohémienne, Salomé, or Cléo de Mérode. His work is characterised by refined modelling, expressive faces, and flowing, often highly stylised hair and drapery, reflecting both Art Nouveau influences and a strong sense of theatricality.

He exhibited regularly at the Paris Salon from the 1880s onward, gaining recognition for his graceful compositions and accessible appeal. Many of his sculptures were cast in bronze by leading foundries and produced in editions, making them popular among collectors of the period.

Today, Villanis’ bronzes are appreciated for their charm, craftsmanship, and embodiment of late 19th-century artistic taste.

To view more sculptures by Emmanuel Villanis please click here.