French Late 19th Century Bronze Armillary Sphere Depicting the Titan Atlas

A French bronze armillary sphere depicting Atlas carrying the world from the late 19th century with verdigris patina. Created in France during the last quarter of the 19th century, this bronze armillary sphere showcases a mythological theme depicting the famed Titan Atlas, condemned to carry the sky on his shoulders for eternity. How appropriate then, to choose him to carry effortlessly this armillary! Casually placing his left hand on his waist, Atlas raises the sphere made of various connecting rings partially inscribed with numbers on the inside. Boasting a verdigris patina typical of the bronze oxidation, the ensemble is raised on a petite base. The first creation of armillary spheres goes back to ancient China during the 4th century BC and ancient Greece during the 3rd century BC, with later uses in the Islamic world and Medieval Europe. With its mythological depiction and nicely weathered verdigris patina, this French bronze armillary sphere circa 1890 will make for a great decorative addition to any home!