François Laurent Rolard (1842-1912) - Monkey Money

Magnificent antique bronze depicting a circus performer and his monkey playing guitar on his shoulder. The man is balancing with a hoop around him. An amusing and charming scene from the late 19th century. This bronze, entitled “Monnaie de singe” (Monkey Money), was presented at the 1884 Salon in a large size. It subsequently adorned the Square de Montholon in Paris and was destroyed during the occupation in 1942. Bronze with a beautiful brown patina. It is presented on a rotating base with a golden patina and the title of the work engraved on it. Signed on the base “Rolard” and marked by the foundry “Société des Bronzes de Paris.”
Very good condition.