catalog text
BRONZE GROUP OF TWO FEMALES AND CUPID AFTER MODEL BY PIERRE EUGENE EMILE HEBERT (FRENCH, 1828-1893)
"Le Jeu de Cache-Cache", Signed in base "E. Hebert", stamped on base edge "Tiffany & Co."
Item # 602GPA20Z
A moving and complex group of “Playing Hide and Seek”, Hebert captures the dance of a young maiden with a determined Cupid while her mother seeks to keep love at bay at least for a time. The nearly militant portrayal of Cupid is distinct despite his cute and childish features, whereby intensity and inevitability are written on his brow and stance. Strapped around his back is a nearly full quiver of arrows, several spent arrows broken on the ground from failed attempts to reach the maiden.
Hebert’s ability to capture expression in this work is most notable, the mother looking on in love with a small smile despite playing the part of divider, the younger woman clearly rather interested in the game of it all. Throughout, the technical quality of his work is above reproach - the modeling of all three figures is exact in proportionality, each relating to the next with perfect harmony; a very complex group to cast, the foundry work is very fine.
Every surface is perfectly chiseled and chased into crisp lifelike detailing. The work was edited by Tiffany & Co., as they were likely the retailers of the sculpture when it was offered. It rests over the original molded rouge marble base.
Measurements: [figure] 17 3/4” H [total including marble] 19 1/4” H; approx. 9 1/4” diameter
Condition Report:
Original patina, oxidized and blackened; areas of loss from natural handling wear, polishing etc. Dust/light grime in crevices. Cupid's right proper hand probably missing an element, tallest female’s left proper hand probably missing an element - this arm also is just ever so slightly loose. It does not need to be addressed in any way, but is worth noting.