Mid-Century French Empire Style Gilt Bronze Sculpture of Napoleon After Boizot

$1,500

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Circa 1950, this elegant gilt bronze sculpture depicts Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte standing in his iconic pose with arms folded beneath his recognizable bicorne hat. Modeled in the neoclassical Empire tradition, the figure is shown in full military attire with finely cast epaulettes, fitted waistcoat, high boots, and sword at his side, conveying the calm authority and introspective character often associated with imperial portraiture. Napoleon leans casually against a draped support and pedestal, a classical compositional device that balances the figure while adding sculptural depth and movement. The emperor stands on an integral plinth above a square base decorated with an applied relief of a reclining winged allegorical figure beside a wheel, a motif evoking classical mythology and reinforcing the neoclassical symbolism frequently used in Napoleonic decorative arts. The bronze displays a warm gilt surface with subtle tonal variations and light natural patina that accentuate the crisp modeling of the uniform, facial features, and drapery. This decorative composition is modeled after works associated with Louis-Simon Boizot (1743–1809), the celebrated French neoclassical sculptor who served as Director of Sculpture at the Sèvres manufacture and created several influential imperial models that were widely reproduced in bronze throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Pieces inspired by Boizot’s interpretations of Napoleon remained popular decorative objects well into the mid-20th century. The sculpture is well cast, solid and substantial, with traditional interior construction visible to the underside. The piece is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use and retains a beautiful mellow gilt bronze patina. Dimensions: 3.5″W x 3.25″D x 12.5″H Weight: 5.5 lbs.

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