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Pair of 19th century bronzed electrotype plaques

Creator: Alexandre Etienne Stella
Offered by: Mayfair Gallery

Description
Pair of 19th century bronzed electrotype plaques
French, Late 19th Century
Frames: Height 61cm, width 71.5cm, depth 12cm
Panels: Height 42cm, width 52cm, depth 6cm

Hailing from the late 19th century, this remarkable duo of bronzed electrotype figural plaques stands as a testament to the creative prowess of the French sculptor Étienne Alexandre Stella.

Imbued with a vivid drama that captivates the onlooker, these pieces depict 17th-century stylistic scenes. The first plaque unfurls the tale of a clandestine romantic rendezvous, presenting a man and a woman dressed in intricately detailed attire, their secret love affair discovered by a sword-wielding man lurking behind a column. The backdrop - a town square complete with an inn and its proprietor - draws the viewer deep into the story through its remarkable intricacies.

Adding to the narrative begun by the first, the second plaque captures the aftermath of discovery - an intense sword fight presumably over the woman's affection. The men from the initial scene, now in combat, are depicted with precision, their facial expressions and body language accurately portraying the heightened emotions. A public square serves as the stage again, with an array of supporting spectators adding to the intensity.

Setting these pieces apart from other electrotype works is their bronzed finish - an unusual feature for these types of plaques, which are traditionally silvered. The richness of the bronze enhances the texture and depth of the scenes, delivering a captivating and singular visual experience.
The large scale of these plaques demands attention, their impressive dimensions underscoring the incredible craftsmanship and meticulous detailing. Housed within a beautiful giltwood frame, their magnificence is further accentuated.

As part of a series, these plaques originate from casts by Stella, a sculptor acclaimed for his distinctive style and masterful execution in bronze.
This pair of plaques exudes charm and promises to add an intriguing dimension to any interior they adorn.

Artist/ Maker: Étienne Alexandre Stella

More Information

Documentation:	Signed
Origin:	France
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Bronze, Giltwood.
Creation Date:	Late 19th Century
Styles / Movements:	Other
Dealer Reference #:	17351
Incollect Reference #:	655301

Dimensions

W.	28.15 in;	H.	24.02 in;	D.	4.72 in;
W.	71.5 cm;	H.	61 cm;	D.	12 cm;

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.