Summer - Albert-Ernest Carrier-belleuse (1824–1887) Signed Pinédo Bronzier Paris

A magnificent and imposing bronze sculpture group with a warm, nuanced brown patina, titled “ Summer”, based on a model by the famous French sculptor Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse (1824–1887). This remarkable allegorical composition depicts Summer in the form of a young woman seated gracefully, holding close to her a bountiful sheaf of wheat—a symbol of fertility, prosperity, and the summer harvest. A charming young child rests on her lap, lending a particularly tender and maternal dimension to this depiction of abundance. The sculpture is distinguished by the finesse of its modeling, the delicacy of the expressions, and the remarkable rendering of the drapery. The ears of wheat, the hair, and the anatomical details all attest to a particularly meticulous execution. The beautiful brown patina with warm undertones subtly highlights the volumes and the play of light. The group rests on an imposing fluted column of veined red marble, lending the entire piece a monumental presence and great decorative elegance. The bronze bears the signature “Carrier-Belleuse” as well as the mark of the Parisian bronze casters “Pinédo Bronzier Paris”. An elegant bronze plaque, affixed to the base, bears the inscription “L’ÉTÉ – MÉDAILLE D’HONNEUR – PAR CARRIER BELLEUSE”. A refined and expressive work, representative of the great tradition of 19th-century French decorative sculpture.

Signature: “Carrier-Belleuse”
Bronzier’s mark: “Pinédo Bronzier Paris”
Inscription on the plaque: “SUMMER – MEDAL OF HONOR – BY CARRIER BELLEUSE”
Other mark: Small monogram stamped into the bronze, to be identified. Materials: Bronze with a nuanced brown patina and red marble.
Period: 19th century; exact date of casting to be confirmed.

Dimensions: H. 85 × W. 43 × D. 43 cm, including the base.

Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse (1824–1887) was one of the most famous and prolific French sculptors of the 19th century. Particularly admired during the Second Empire, he enjoyed the support of Napoleon III, among others. His work, influenced by the Italian Renaissance and the 18th-century French tradition, is distinguished by the elegance of his figures, the richness of his compositions, and the virtuosity of his modeling. He was also the mentor of Auguste Rodin, who worked in his studio early in his career. His works occupy an important place in the history of 19th-century French decorative sculpture.

Artist: Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse (1824–1887)
Foundry: Pinédo Bronzier, Paris
Period: 19th century
Origin: France