Late 19th Century Napoleon III Cherub Playing the Drum Wall Sculpture in Bronze, France

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Wall sculpture, “cherub playing the drum,” ormolu, napoleon iii, late 19th century - france
wall sculpture
material: ormolu
style: napoleon … Read more Wall sculpture, “cherub playing the drum,” ormolu, napoleon iii, late 19th century - france
wall sculpture
material: ormolu
style: napoleon iii
period: late 19th century
country of origin: france
good condition considering its age and use
dimensions: 35 x 32 x 17 cm
a beautiful wall sculpture, “cherub playing the drum,” crafted from lustrous ormolu, in the napoleon iii style and period.
the central figure is a young boy playing the drum while seated atop a backdrop of vegetal and rocaille motifs. The upper back is framed by an openwork crest with sinuous and decorative forms.
the reverse side features two hooks for wall mounting. These types of objects were decorative elements often used in fine cabinetmaking furniture, although they could also be used independently as wall sconces (by adding candle holders) or as fireplace andirons.
style and period: napoleon iii or second empire
the napoleon iii or second empire style gets its name from the fact that it originated in france during that period. Strictly speaking, the second empire was proclaimed in 1852 and ended in 1870, led by louis napoleon bonaparte as emperor of the french, although in an artistic sense it extended a few years longer (until 1880). This style was very popular among the french bourgeoisie. The emperor himself was involved in the artistic development of the time, although more closely linked to architecture. However, it is empress eugénie who is credited with the evolution of the decorative arts.

although inspired by past styles, beginning with classical antiquity, the renaissance, and even the louis xvi style, much beloved by eugénie, the most representative characteristic of the style is its sumptuousness and ostentation, always aspiring to display wealth and opulence.

it is not a style designed specifically for the second empire, but rather a revival of the various great french styles of previous centuries, a kind of compilation of french decorative trends. Special reference is made to louis xiv, louis xv, baroque, and rococo, and gradually to the eclectic louis xvi. Ultimately, these are the decorative styles that had positioned france at the forefront of interior design and furniture design in europe, both for quality and for originality and beauty. See less