catalog text
BRONZE BUST OF ALDA AFTER MODEL BY EMMANUEL VILLANIS (FRENCH, fl. 1880-1920)
Signed in cast "E. Villanis", stamped verso "e. 8630" and sealed "Bronze Garanti Au Titre, L.V. Déposée"
Item # 611NWB07Q
Villanis worked in a style that is quickly identifiable, his characterizations of historical and imagined female subjects always firmly rooted in the Art Nouveau movement with a sense of organic naturalism flowing through the base and figure. The present example depicts a young woman Alda, her nymph-like features somewhat reminiscent of a fairy or woodland creature with distinctly and almost eternally youthful presence. She is entirely at peace, her head turned slightly in thoughtful repose as if considering something of importance. One of the most wonderful aspects of Villanis’s sculptures is the remarkable and complex patina, the present example no exception with it’s red oxide hue throughout her perfectly smooth skin, while the garment, integral plinth and hair share an inordinately complex mixture of gilded highlights, browns, greens and reds. The casting quality is above reproach, perfect chiseling evident in every area of the work - the finishing is exceptional and the skin is without pit or flaw, her features sharp and gorgeous.
For the serious collector of very fine Art Nouveau sculpture, this bronze bust is a powerful and distinct work.
Born in Lille, France, little is known about the life of Emmanuel Villanis, despite the fact that he has a simply incredible level of output during the years of 1880-1920. First exhibiting at Salon in 1886, he went on to exhibit nearly five-hundred models, almost exclusively featuring the female form with strong influence of the Art Nouveau movement evident in every aspect of his work. He received honorable mention at the 1889 Exposition Universelle, Paris. The present example was cast in many different sizes and is generally found in a smaller and less prominent dimension.
Literature and Further Reading:
- Bronzes of the Nineteenth Century, Dictionary of Sculptors, Kjellberg, p. 641-644
- Art Bronzes, Forrest, p. 484
- Bronzes: Sculptors and Founders, vol II, Berman, p. 343, f. 1244
Measurements: 22 1/2” H x 11” W x approx. 8” D
Condition Report:
Exceptional condition, surface vibrant and clean. Minor patina wear from handling, as expected.