After Antonio Canova (1757–1822) Pauline Borghèse as Venus Victrix

After Antonio Canova (1757–1822) Pauline Borghèse as Venus Victrix Bronze and Marble Circa 1860–1880

This bronze after Antonio Canova, stamped Bronze Garanti Paris J.B Déposé No. A 1149, exemplifies exceptional quality and Parisian craftsmanship, making it a highly sought-after piece among discerning collectors. It depicts Pauline Borghèse as Venus Victrix, a neoclassical masterpiece in which her reclining, unveiled figure rests on a kline, languidly supported by a cushion and holding an apple—a reference to the Judgment of Paris.

Commissioned between 1805 and 1808 by Camille Borghèse, this sculpture—for which Pauline Bonaparte herself posed—caused a scandal in its time. The original, executed in Rome, now resides in the Borghese Gallery, while a replica is displayed at the British Embassy in her former residence. Pauline also inspired Canova’s Galatea.

Quality and Description:
Finely chased, this bronze features a rich brown patina and rests on a veined gray marble base. Crafted in France between 1860 and 1880, it bears the Parisian foundry’s guarantee mark, a hallmark of authenticity and refinement.

Dimensions:
Height: 13.8 in
Length: 21.3 in
Depth: 7.5 in

Condition:
In excellent vintage condition, this bronze exhibits minor patina wear, adding to its timeless charm and historical character.

Biography:
Antonio Canova (1757–1822) – A Life Devoted to Art.
Born in Possagno into a family of stonemasons, Canova began sculpting in childhood. In 1768, recommended by Senator Giovanni Falier, he apprenticed under Giuseppe Bernardi before studying at Venice’s Santa Marina school. A prizewinner at the Venice Academy of Fine Arts, he quickly rose to prominence, blending naturalism with classical ideals.

His oeuvre, celebrated for its mythological subjects and portraits of eminent figures, epitomizes Neoclassical sculpture. Canova also excelled in painting and dedicated part of his wealth to supporting young artists. Summoned to Paris by Napoleon, he played a pivotal role in the restitution of Italian artworks after 1815, as stipulated by the Congress of Vienna.

Nobled and honored, Canova died in 1822. His heart lies in Venice, within a funerary monument he originally designed for Titian, while his body is interred in Possagno’s Tempio Canoviano.

The Bronze Garanti Paris J.B Déposé No. A 1149 Mark:
This stamp, linked to prestigious Parisian foundries such as Susse Frères, Barbedienne, and Thiébaut Frères, attests to the excellence and provenance of 19th-century bronzes. Pieces bearing this mark are especially prized by art collectors.