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Antique French sculpture of the Two Fates by Barbedienne

Creator: Ferdinand Barbedienne
Offered by: Mayfair Gallery

Description
Antique French sculpture of the Two Fates by Barbedienne
French, Late 19th Century
Sculpture: Height 81cm, width 143cm, depth 43cm
Base: Height 60cm, width 163cm, depth 35cm
Overall: Height 141cm, width 163cm, depth 43cm

This elegant patinated bronze sculpture is inspired by the original work of Eugène-Louis Lequesne (1815–1887), a distinguished French sculptor of the 19th century. The bronze cast was expertly produced by the esteemed Ferdinand Barbedienne foundry, renowned for its exceptional decorative art bronzes.

Named ‘Two Fates’, the piece represents Clotho and Atropos - two of the three mythological Fates, alongside Lachesis, from classical Roman and Greek legend. The design is based on figures from the East Pediment of the Parthenon, currently part of the British Museum’s collection. The original sculpture is incomplete, lacking heads and limbs, which were later added in by the French sculptor Auguste Jean Baptiste Clésinger (1814–1883).

Unlike the original, this cast portrays the two figures without the traditional depiction of spinning or cutting the thread of life, perhaps reflecting an artistic choice to capture them in a more serene and contemplative moment. The bronze features remarkable craftsmanship, especially evident in the finely detailed drapery that adds a sense of realism and movement.

The base bears the marks ‘F. Barbedienne Fondeur’ and ‘Lequesne’, confirming its provenance and high-quality casting. Resting on a beautifully carved and veneered wooden plinth, the contrast between the warm wood tones and the dark bronze enhances the sculpture’s visual appeal.

Representing iconic mythological characters, this distinguished bronze is a superb addition for collectors or anyone seeking a captivating focal point with classical elegance.

Artist/Maker: Ferdinand Barbedienne

More Information

Documentation:	Signed
Origin:	France
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Bronze, Wood.
Creation Date:	Late 19th Century
Styles / Movements:	Other
Dealer Reference #:	17843
Incollect Reference #:	811915

Dimensions

W.	64.17 in;	H.	55.51 in;	D.	16.93 in;
W.	163 cm;	H.	141 cm;	D.	43 cm;

Message from Seller:

Mayfair Gallery, located in London’s exclusive Mayfair district, specializes in exceptional art and antiques from the 19th and early 20th centuries, featuring works by renowned artists and craftsmen. With a focus on quality and historical importance, our diverse collection unites exquisite pieces that exemplify unparalleled artistry. | jamie@mayfairgallery.com | 44.207.491.3435 |