catalog text
"BELLUAIRE" BRONZE SCULPTURE CAST FROM THE MODEL BY EUGENE MARIOTON
"Siot-Decauville Fondeur Paris" cachet verso, signed "E. Marioton" on side of base
Item # 809AFP06A
The bronze sculptures by Eugene Marioton of "The Charmer of Serpents" and the present model of "The Beastmaster" are his most popular and widely recognized works. "Belluaire", or Beastmaster, follows in the contemporary taste for Orientalism of his day, the work depicting a type of gladiator who entertained the public by fighting and taming wild beasts. The present example is sinuous and playful as the Belluaire taunts a panther crouched between his legs with his staff while holding a whip at ready. The majority of Eugene Marioton's bronze sculpture was cast by the foundries of E. Colin and Siot Decauville; the present example is cast by Siot with their cachet verso "Siot-Decauville Fondeur Paris". His signature is crisply incised in the side of the base. Note the exquisite chiseling of the figure's eyelids, the fine finishing of surfaces with minutely chased texturing and the overall excellent surface patina. It is a fine lifetime cast from the first quarter of the 20th century.
Literature & Further Reading:
- Bronzes of the Nineteenth Century: Dictionary of Sculptors, Pierre Kjellberg, 1994, p. 458-460, "Belluaire" is noted with two sales on p. 458 in 50 cm by Siot sold by Sotheby's on Nov 8, 1984, and 84 cm by an unknown foundry
- Art Bronzes, Michael Forrest, 1988, f. 2.75 [present model]
- E. Benezit Dictionary of Artists, Vol. IX, Gründ, 2006, p. 295
Measurements: 19 3/4" H x 7 3/4" W x 7 3/4" D
Condition Report:
Fine original patina. Discoloration to the base on signature side. Minor handling wear to relief and edges (hair, toes, tail). Minute gap between tapped center of the whip. Waxed and polished, in fine presentation condition.