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Pair of patinated bronze figures after Giambologna

Offered by: Mayfair Gallery

Description
Pair of patinated bronze figures after Giambologna
French, late 19th Century
Mercury: Height 84cm, width 17cm, depth 31cm
Fortuna: Height 84.5cm, width 17cm, depth 29cm

The patinated bronze figures are pictured in the nude, adopting active poses. Both stand on their tiptoes on one foot — Fortuna resting on a scrolling base, and Mercury on a gust of wind, produced by Zephyrus, the god of the western wind — and their other leg is flicked back. In both, one arm is raised, and the other rests at their side.

The figures stand on cylindrical yellow marble bases, which are ringed with continuous relief panels, depicting cherubs at the helm of sailing ships, and navigating using globes. The decision to represent Neptune and Fortuna together, combined with the relief depictions of sea travel, make is possible the pair served as good luck talismans for travellers, particularly merchants or sailors.

These sculptures are based on bronze works by the 16th Century Flemish sculptor, Giambologna. Born Jean Boulogne, Giambologna spent most of his career in Italy, where he became famous for his Mannerist style marble and bronze sculptures.

Artist/maker: (after) Giambologna (Italian, 1529-1608)

More Information

Origin:	France
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Marble, patinated bronze.
Creation Date:	Late 19th Century
Styles / Movements:	Other
Dealer Reference #:	16818
Incollect Reference #:	490725

Message from Seller:

Mayfair Gallery is a leading gallery in the field of art and antiques, holding a large collection of unique pieces for sale. The breadth of the gallery’s collection is wide, and includes items from a range of periods, styles and geographical origins, as well as works by famous artists and craftsmen. The main focus of the gallery’s collection is, however, on items produced during the 19th and early 20th century.