catalog text
"JUDITH" AFTER A MODEL BY EUGENE AIZELIN (FRENCH, 1821-1902)
Cachet verso of Thiebaut Freres, Paris; circa 1880-90
Item # 130303OFP13
This is an incredibly fine original antique sculpture by Eugene Aizelin of "Judith". One of the earliest casts of this subject by Eugene Aizelin is held at Musee d'Orsay, a very large bronze statue cast by Thiebaut Freres with a height of 2.1 meters (RF 2222) dated 1889. "Judith" was originally exhibited at Salon 108, Paris, France in 1890. This antique bronze sculpture is of utmost quality, the level of detail captured of striking precision and realism. Standing at a full 28 3/8", it is necessarily a prominent part of whatever setting it joins in your home. Judith stands proud and unapologetic after seducing and decapitating General Holofernes of the Assyrian Army, his head resting beneath her flowing garb; it is a fascinating biblical subject that has been captured by artists in hundreds of different sculptures and paintings starting in the Early Renaissance through the first years of the 20th Century.
Literature: "Bronzes, Sculptors and Founders", Berman (biography and notes); "Bronzes of the 19th Century", Kjellberg, pg. 32; "Grove Dictionary of Art", Turner
Measurements: Marble base is 11 1/8" x 8 1/2"; Bronze base is 8 3/4" x 6 1/4"; height of bronze sculpture is 24 3/4"; total height of bronze including marble base is 28 3/8"
Condition Report:
Light chipping to the marble base. Some patina discoloration and rubbed wear, though incredibly minor. Gilt mounts on base with trace oxidization and wear. Overall incredibly fine condition.