catalog text
"PENELOPE SLEEPING" BRONZE SCULPTURE AFTER MODEL BY PIERRE JULES CAVELIER (FRENCH, 1814-94)
Cast by F. Barbedienne Fondeurs, sealed verso "120 J Cavelier" with A. Collas reduction seal; inscribed 86 to underside
Item # 012UQT09K
This is a precious little antique bronze sculpture by Pierre Jules Cavelier, originally exhibited at Salon in 1842 as Femme Grecque Edormie in plaster, was later exhibited in 1849 as a marble sculpture under the title of Penelope. It was cast almost exclusively by the foundry of Ferdinand Barbedienne and is the only Cavelier sculpture to appear in their 1886 catalog in five reductions after the original. This cast is La reduction no. 2, originally offered at 360 francs with a height of 36 cm.
His works are quite scarce, only two sculptures being catalogued in Berman's extensive reference work (vol. III). The sculpture is a highly detailed sand cast example, expertly tooled and finished with a complex parcel silver-plate, gilt highlighting and patination against an overall medium brown chemical patination.
The details throughout are finely chiseled, the back of the seat being impressed with a seal typical of Cavelier. The underside of the sculpture is gilt washed and includes a post-production marking of 86.
Measurements: 13 3/4" H x 8 3/4" D x 11 1/4" W
Condition Report:
A fine original patina with extensive natural discoloration to the silvered surface; handling wear to relief of patina throughout, allowing the warmer bronze undertones to come through. Traces of oxidization. Cleaned, waxed and polished - remaining a very fine presentation-ready selection.