Life-Size Marble Sculpture Statue of “Air” after the Antique by Le Hongre

ÉTIENNE LE HONGRE (after)
French, 1628-1690

"Allegory of Air"

Reconfigured after the model of antiquity to present without the eagle by her side
Carved from a single block of white marble
Circa early-to-mid 20th century, unsigned

67 1/2" H x 10 3/4" D x 21 7/8" W

Carved in marble at a nearly life-size scale, this figure represents an allegory of Air derived from a model executed by Étienne Le Hongre now in the Parc du Château in Palace of Versailles. A simplification of the original, the present carving depicts the female figure in contrapposto with one arm raised above her head to capture the veil that is blown away in the winds, pulled tight against her arms and legs while exposing her upper body.

In its original conception, the allegory included an eagle at the base as an attribute of Air. That element is not present here, resulting in a simplified presentation of the figure while retaining the primary compositional structure.

The sculpture is carved from a single solid block of white marble and has been in a garden setting most of its life, resulting in a natural weathering and honing of the surface throughout. We have opted not to have the sculpture cleaned in order to preserve its sense of natural place in the garden setting, though obviously having her cleaned can be arranged upon request.

** Note, this is incredibly heavy and will require special equipment and plans for installation. **

Condition: Surface heavily weathered and discolored. Minor chips and blemishes.

ref. 501PQP04S