Offered by Mora Antiques
An important and finely cast French bronze sculpture entitled “David Vainqueur” (David the Conqueror), after the celebrated model by Antonin Mercié (1845–1916), cast by the prestigious Ferdinand Barbedienne Foundry, Paris.
The composition depicts the youthful David immediately following his victory over Goliath. Standing gracefully with one foot resting upon the severed head of the giant, David raises Goliath’s sword above him in a striking and elegant pose. Mercié combines the biblical subject with an idealised, almost Renaissance-inspired treatment of the youthful male figure, creating one of the most recognisable French sculptures of the late 19th century.
The bronze is particularly refined in its modelling: the anatomy of David is sensitively rendered, while the elaborate treatment of Goliath’s head, the sword, drapery and richly ornamented circular base demonstrate the high quality of the casting and finishing.
The sculpture bears the signature “A. MERCIÉ”, the foundry inscription “F. BARBEDIENNE, FONDEUR, PARIS”, the number 212, and the circular “RÉDUCTION MÉCANIQUE – A. COLLAS – BREVETÉ” seal. The latter refers to the celebrated mechanical reduction process developed by Achille Collas and used by Barbedienne for authorised bronze reductions of important sculptural models.
Antonin Mercié was one of the leading French sculptors of his generation. His original David Vainqueur was conceived in the early 1870s and brought the young sculptor considerable acclaim, becoming one of his defining works.
The warm brown patina beautifully emphasises the sculptural modelling and gives the bronze an elegant, rich appearance.
A highly decorative and collectible example of 19th-century French bronze sculpture, combining an iconic model by Antonin Mercié with the renowned craftsmanship of the Barbedienne foundry.
Artist: Antonin Mercié (1845–1916)
Title: David Vainqueur (David the Conqueror)
Foundry: Ferdinand Barbedienne, Paris
Marks: A. Mercié; F. Barbedienne, Fondeur, Paris; no. 212; A. Collas reduction seal
Material: Patinated bronze
Origin: France
Period: Late 19th century
Height: 73 cm
Delevery information :
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