catalog text
BRONZE FIGURAL GROUP “LA DANSE” BY EUGENE MARIOTON (FRENCH, 1857-1933)
Signed in base “Eug. Marion, Hors Concours”, sealed with E. Colin Paris stamp
Item # 511KZO17Q
Of exceedingly fine quality and presence, this exceptional work by Eugéne Marioton is a moving expression of love. Presumably a captured allegorical moment between Zephyr and Psyche, the work is generally titled “La Danse”, sometimes a confused title as a sculpture by Marioton with a solo female dancing was also titled integral to the base “La Danse”. The passion and purity of the moment are emphasized by the wind that seemingly billows through their garments as each lover is entranced in the other’s eyes. Holding her gently in his powerful arm, she seems almost weightlessly elevated over him as the dance through the chaotic swirl of clouds. Detailing of the sculpture is a marvel, every detail of the body and every element of their garment perfectly cast and finished in the bronze; wrinkles along the finger joints, nails, individual hairs, perfect eyelids and flawless musculature define this masterpiece. The base is crisply signed Eug. Marioton “hors concours” with a tiny circular mark from the E. Colin foundry. Beneath the base is a well for the marble column to join into the sculpture, allowing it to be rotated at will without moving away from the center of the base.
The same edition (81.3 cm) cast by E. Colin founders sold at Christies (November 24th, 2009 in New York, sale 2203 lot 217) for $11,875
Measurements: approx. 14” D x approx. 18” W x 30 1/4” H (sculpture); 54 7/8” H including marble column
Condition Report:
Exceptional overall condition, original patina in excellent state of preservation; minor surface wear, rubbing to patina below signature, abrasion to tips of the female’s foot, tip of male’s toe with light abrasion, other very minor wear. Marble column is included, having discoloration, chips, wear and other minor blemishes throughout.