19th Century French Bronze Sculpture of Seated Horace

LARGE FRENCH ROMANTIC BRONZE SCULPTURE OF SEATED POET HORACE
Circa mid-to-late 19th century, stamped verso base edge "139"
Item # 611KZX03P 

An unusually large sculpture depicting the Roman poet Horace sitting on a Classical bench in his complex toga garment, the figure grasps a pen in hand with a scroll partially rolled on his lap with engraved words of “Eloge de la vie cham petre heureux qui de ses mains comme nos premiers péres cultive en paix ses champs et vit libre d'affaires. Horace art poétique", loosely translating to “In praise of life, happy are the hands of our forefathers who cultivated fields in peace and saw freedom in their affairs” signed “Horace, art poet”.  The work is crisply executed with fine face features and perfect skin execution, his head encircled with a band of laurel leaves.  His feet are bound with Roman sandals with thongs wrapped around his lower calf and surmounted with a beautifully cast head of a Wolf over each.  His toes are perfectly cast with skin, wrinkle and nail of utmost realism.  At the back corner of the sculpture base is an impression from the foundry of 139 over what appears to be a crown.  The size is notable, his height a full 25 1/2” and commanding attention in every way.  For the passionate collector of Romantic period works, this is an absolutely stunning and relatively rare model.

Measurements:  25 1/2” H x 18 1/2” W (edge to the outstretched foot) x 10” D

Condition Report:
Original patina with surface discoloration throughout, handling wear to patina and light scuffs.  Light abrasion to knee.  Waxed and polished in the shop.  Overall a very pleasing presentation.  Sculpture will ship via freight due to the size and weight.