Black patinated bronze on red marble base; 39x21x21 cm. This group represents Bacchus as a child carried in triumph by the bacchante. At his feet a putto tasting a bunch of grapes and the panther, symbol of the God.
Beautifully cast and chiseled, in the best tradition of 19th century French foundries, it bears the signature of Clodion. The models of the great French sculptor were replicated throughout the 19th century and enjoyed great popularity for the pleasing sensuality of the subjects.
This casting, for its undisputed quality, is among those closest to the first half of the 19th century. Note the beautiful original base in red marble that allows the sculpture to be rotated.