Beautifully detailed hot cast, bronze statue of "Emerald" taken from "The Precious Stones" series of lithographs by Alphonse Mucha (1900) - and included in images above for illustration. The bronze is on a marble base and is finished in a brown patina which is lightened on the figure to highlight her form. Overall height 25cm, 22cm without base. Signed C Mirval who was a sculptor working in the early 19th century. As a reproduction, it will not carry a foundry mark.
This contemporary bronze reproduction captures the essence of Mucha's design. In this series, women personify four precious stones - topaz, ruby, amethyst and emerald. The upper part of each composition is dominated by a female figure, while the lower part features a flower whose colour echoes that of the particular gemstone. Emerald is portrayed as a mysterious and menacing precious stone. The armchair with animals heads on each arm rest is inspired by one of Mucha's own chairs and can be seen in many of his drawings and photographs. Mucha's lithograph was the influence for the original bronze statue in which the figure is seated amongst a naturalistic woodland scene.
"Emerald" Art Nouveau Bronze in the style of Mucha
This sculpture is in excellent original condition. Please see photos as these form an important part of the description.
This statue has been hot cast using the lost-wax method. Lost-wax casting is the process by which a duplicate metal sculpture is cast from an original sculpture or model based on an original work. Where the original work has been used, the duplicate will be more faithful. All bronzes are hand finished following casting and then patinated to give its surface appearance and colour. Differences to the orignal work can result since it will not have been finished/patinated by the original foundary.