A very fine late 19th Century French bronze bust of an attractive classical maiden modelled in the Art Nouveau style, with fabulous variegating red and brown colour and excellent hand finished detail. Signed E Villanis, with Societè des Bronzes de Paris foundry seal, numbered and with raised title to the fore.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Height: 23 cm
Width: 13 cm
Depth: 9 cm
Condition: Excellent Original Condition
Circa: 1890
Materials: Bronze
Book Ref: Emmanuel Villanis by Josje Hortulanus-de Mik
Page No: 78
Foundry: Societè des Bronzes de Paris
SKU: 8776
ABOUT
Les Pecheurs de pearles Opera - Seule
Suele has a minor role of this story. She is glimpsed only briefly where her beauty entrances the fishermen and they both fall for her beauty. This leads to them having a bitter rivalary. However, they manage to save their friendship by swearing not to pursue the priestess. Now, reunited, they affirm once again that they will be faithful until death and continue their journey.
Emmanuel Villanis
Emmanuel Villanis was an industrious man. He is believed to have created some 200 to 250 pieces. His oeuvre pre-eminently consisted of busts and full body statues. Most of these were manufactured in bronze, but there are also models in white metal and terra cotta. Different patinas were used. The bronzes were mainly cast by the Societé de Bronzes de Paris and can be recognised by the round stamp (cachet) at the back of the statue. In addition, reliefs, vases, lamps, clocks and ink stands are recorded . Vases and lamps were mostly made of tin, and there are also marble statues. Pieces in which ivory is used are as rare as silver statues.
Villanis was inspired by women. He dedicated almost his complete works to them. One model in particular was portrayed many times by him. His portrayals of children may be less known, but are nevertheless wonderfully done. His statues are always in perfect proportion and are full of expression: dreamy-eyed, happy, sirene, indifferent, cheeky, serious, sad, detached, melancholy.
His style can always be recognised by his use of hollowed out eyeballs. The name of the statue can usually be found on the base in scrolled script and the signature of Emmanuel Villanis is always visible and legible.
To view more sculptures by Emmanuel Villanis please click here.
