catalog text
BRONZE SCULPTURE OF L’AURORE BY MATHURIN MOREAU (FRENCH, 1822-1912)
France, circa 1880
Item # 608BLT05A
An exquisite sculpture depicting “The Dawn” or “L’Aurore” by Mathurin Moreau, this moving work captures a timeless scene of a young nymph stepping up the stairs of this original rouge grotto marble base to greet the abundant flowers growing from a vase set over a ionic pedestal. Her tiny wings project from her uncovered back as the rest of her form is draped in a slight diaphanous garment she clutches lightly in one hand while entranced by the smell of the nature before her. It is a most interesting work of incredibly precision, her body placed and proportioned perfectly to interact with the marble and floral display with perfect naturalism. The casting quality is exceptional, as is always the case with works by Mathurin Moreau executed during his lifetime. The marble base is etched with a gilt highlighted titling along the front of the plinth. The entire sculpture rests over a bronze rim. For serious collectors of bronze sculpture, this is a most fine investment grade work.
Literature: Bronzes of the Nineteenth Century: Dictionary of Artists, Pierre Kjellberg, p. 513
Condition Report: Fine original patina with light handling wear, minor abrasion to patina on figure’s back. Very light chipping to original marble plinth.