catalog text
CLAUDIUS MARIOTON
French, 1844-1919
"Diogenes" (1883)
Sand-cast and patinated bronze | signed to right side of base "Marioton Sc" with intertwined C S | cold-stamped foundry marking "E. Colin Cie Paris" | cast circa 1910
ref. 501ATR29Z
21 1/2" H x 7 1/2" D x 6 1/8" W
Originally executed by Claudius Marioton in 1883 as a full-length figure, this model of Diogenes achieved commercial success and was cast in several sizes by E. Colin & Cie. The sculpture represents Diogenes of Sinope, the 4th-century B.C. philosopher known for his ascetic lifestyle and rejection of material wealth. As a central figure of Cynicism, he is famously depicted searching by lantern for an honest man, a symbolic act reflecting his critique of societal corruption.
The powerful portrayal by Marioton captures Diogenes in a moment of intense scrutiny. The figure is nearly skeletal, with deeply furrowed brows and hollowed cheeks emphasizing his self-imposed deprivation. The anatomy is meticulously observed, with taut musculature and visible veins adding to the sense of physical endurance. His garment clings loosely to his frame, held aloft only by a strap across his shoulder, reinforcing his disregard for material comfort. The expressive modeling of the beard and hair, as well as the rough texture of his staff, contrast with the smooth, polished surfaces of his exposed skin. This careful interplay of textures heightens the realism and psychological depth of the piece.
Marioton’s Diogenes exemplifies the late 19th-century fascination with classical themes interpreted through the lens of naturalism and expressive Romanticism. The strong diagonal posture, with his outstretched arm and forward-leaning stance, imbues the composition with a dynamic energy, suggesting both movement and relentless inquiry.
An example of this work in the current dimension was reported as being in the collection of Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris (54 cm, see Kjellberg) and another example in the permanent collection of the Glyptotek in Copenhagen.
Condition:
Very fine original condition. Light rubbing to the chest and cheeks, faint wear around edges of the base. Carefully cleaned and sealed in conservator's wax. Polished and a fine presentation.
Biography
Claudius Marioton (1844–1919) was famous during his lifetime for his distinctive style in classical and allegorical works. Born in Paris on February 2nd of 1844, he was the elder brother of sculptor Eugène Marioton and painter Jean Alfred Marioton. Marioton honed his craft under the tutelage of Augustin-Alexandre Dumont at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris.
Throughout his career, Marioton was a regular exhibitor at the Paris Salon, commencing in 1873. His dedication and skill earned him several accolades: an honorable mention in 1879, a third-class medal in 1883, and a second-class medal in 1885. His participation in the Expositions Universelles further solidified his reputation, where he was awarded a silver medal in 1889 and a gold medal in 1890. Finally in 1895 he received the very prestigious appointment as Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur.
Marioton's oeuvre encompasses a range of sculptures, from small bronzes to monumental marble pieces. Notably, he created an allegorical representation of the city of Lyon, which adorns the façade of the Hôtel de Ville in Paris. His acclaimed work "Diogenes" earned him a third-class medal at the 1883 Paris Salon and saw significant commercial success - it is part of the collection at the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek in Copenhagen. Much of his work was edited by Colin et Cie and Thiebaut freres.
Beyond his extensive contribution to modeling, Marioton contributed to the arts community as a member of the overseeing committee of the École Boulle and served as the director of the École de Dessin de Modelage et de Ciselure de la Réunion des Fabricants de Bronze in Paris. He died in Paris in April of 1919.
References:
- Bronzes of the Nineteenth Century: A Dictionary of Sculptors, Kjellberg, 1994, p 457-458, present model pictured p. 457
- E. Benezit Dictionary of Artists, Vol. IX, Gründ, 2006, p. 295