An Important 18th century Hand carved Marble sculpture of a Bacchante. French, circa: 1775-1785. Measuring: 31.5"
High. Weighing 60+ pounds.
This Marble sculpture is firmly attributed to JEAN-JOSEPH FOUCOU (1739-1815).
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Literature:
JEAN-JOSEPH FOUCOU (1739-1815).
was a pupil of Caffieri and a contemporary of Clodion. He was also Academician and a regular contributor to
the Salons from 1779-1812. The present marble incorporates characteristics which suggest a sculptor associated with
Clodion. The subject matter (Erigone) and the position of the figure are inspired by this masters work for
Maison-Lafitte (Seine-et-Oise). However the static movement, the heavily drilled hair embellished with vegetation and
the the tree trunk support issuing from a circular base are details associated with Jean-Joseph Foucou.
Not only is Foucou's choice of subject matter (Mythological and allegorical female figure) parallel to Clodion's but his
scale, medium, and style are also suggestive of the master. The confusion is further by the fact that both sculptors
were favored by the same patrons and that many of Foucou's marbles are unsigned.
Similar examples of Foucou's marbles can be found in Museums world wide including the Louvre and Important
American Museums as well. Other unsigned Bacchante marbles are known in the collection of the Pennsylvania
Academy of the Fine Arts,
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The overal conditon is sublime for a marble of this period. Only one old break-restoration top wrist of her right arm. Her left hand has one finger lacking and some minor wear and chips to edges of leaves. 85% of all Marble sculpture in Museums have had restoration or extensive damage of some kind. You may also see the conditon reports on the last photos of similar examples.
Please see all photos for more examples and text of similar works by Foucou in Museums and Private collections. |
