catalog text
FRENCH PATINATED BRONZE SCULPTURE OF "BUST OF MENELAUS"
Circa 1880; executed by Georges Servant, "GS" foundry mark verso
Item # 002IFQ08U
While there are many opinions regarding the identity of the bust, the two predominant theories are that it is General Ajax or the bust portion of the sculpture “Menelaus Supporting the body of Patroclus” in the Loggia dei Lanzi, Florence, Italy.
The present model is a very fine Grand Tour casting of excellent quality, the details of his helmet and face captured with purity and utmost clarity - the surface of his skin, garment and armor is smooth and without a single casting flaw. The patina is nearly black, delightfully worn from light handling over the years and preserved under wax. The overall result is an incredibly striking subject - his helmet is of particular interest, the whole being covered in a nearly symmetrical landscape of centaurs in combat with human figures, the cap embellished with a tailed Eagle figure and the edges with a crouching panther. His face is stern and determined.
The bronze sculpture rests over the original gilt patinated socle. Along the back edge of the socle and the lower edge of the bust are the cold stamped initials of GS along with their cachet of a bee under a tiny star. Prolific and highly regarded for the quality of his work, Georges Emile Henri Servant exhibited extensively, including at the 1855 Paris Exhibition and the 1862 and 1867 London Exhibitions where he won the gold medallion.
Measurements: 16 5/8" H x 8" W x 6 3/8" D
Condition Report:
Minor handling wear to patina in high relief. Some light tarnish to the gilding of the socle.