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Barthelemy Prieur (Berzieux, 1538 - Paris, 1611)Workshop of
Allegory of France, 17th century
Bronze, reddish transparent patina, traces of dark patina
sculpture: 21 x 16 x 8 cm
This very rare bronze is attributed to Barthelemy Prieur, court sculptor of Henry IV, king of France. It was most likely part of a triptych of busts depicting allegories of France and Navarre, with the king, Henry IV, in the centre.
There are very few surviving castings of this enchanting subject: Charles Avery, cataloging the one kept in the Lia Museum, La Spezia, indicates three ancient ones and one later. Comparing it with the bronze in question, one can notice the absolute stylistic similarity, for example in the easy handling of the hair, created directly in the wax model, or in the deep and expressive gaze. Even the transparent red patina with black bituminous traces appears consistent. Charles Avery attributes the bust in the Lia collection to the workshop of Barthelemy Prieur.
Literature:
Charles Avery, La Spezia-Amedeo Lia Civic Museum-Sculptures, Bronzes, Plaques, Medals, Silvana Editoriale, Cinisello Balsamo, 1989, pp. 191-193.
Charles Avery, La Spezia-Amedeo Lia Civic Museum-Sculptures, Bronzes, Plaques, Medals, Silvana Editoriale, Cinisello Balsamo, 1989, pp. 191-193.
Live auction 306
Sculpture and Small Bronzes from 15th to 19th Century
Palazzo Caetani Lovatelli, fri 28 June 2024
SINGLE SESSION 28/06/2024 Hours 16:00