catalog text
FINE FRENCH SCHOOL BRONZE SCULPTURE OF GALILEO
Late 19th Century
Item # 504XBP18Z
This exceptional antique French bronze sculpture captures the astronomer Galileo surrounded by thick leather bound volumes tucked into the ornate bookshelf he leans upon, his brow furrowed and deep in though as he gazes deeply into the globe balanced under his heavy hand. A scroll has spilled from the bookshelf, hanging open on the floor - this is the second casting of this model we've had the opportunity to carry; click here to reference the sold slightly larger model with the scroll reading "et cependent la terre tourne". Due to being of smaller dimensions, this scroll does not have enough space for the foundry to have been able to cast these words onto the scroll, and as such it has been left blank.
Galileo's robe is simply a marvel with it's intricate detail, the flowing garment wrapping around him and furled along the ground - each twist and curve is sculpted exactly and cast with precision. His vest and fur collar are intricately chased and filed to leave crisp the fine texture of the fabric and fur. It is finished in a nearly black patina with hints of red oxide and lighter browns, this preserved under wax for a simply glowing finish. This model is held in the Wellcome Library Collection, acc. no. 47279 - a pair to this sculpture was made of Colombo and the two of these were together offered by Sotheby's in 2005 in 40 cm at which point one or both were signed "A. Mérique" - the present example is unsigned and Mérique is not documented in any reference material, suggesting it was possibly a pseudonym or a foundry artist. This is a rare and positively stunning investment grade work of art for serious collectors of French bronze sculptures - of exquisite quality, it is a statement for anyone passionate about the sciences or astronomy.
Measurements: 10 3/4" H x 8" W x 6 3/4" D
Condition Report:
Light dust in crevices, very light patina wear to surfaces. Overall remaining in exceptional condition.