Jules Dalou (1838-1902)

"Man leaning on the shovel with both hands" Bronze proof with nuanced brown patina Lost wax by Susse Frères Publishers Signed on the plinth Foundry stamp Around 1905/1910 Dimensions: Height: 18.5 cm Width: 6.7 cm - Depth : 6.6 cm Bibliography: Terracotta model listed under number 180, page 253, in the book “Jules Dalou, the sculptor of the Republic” published by Paris Musées – Petit Palais. Biography: Jules DALOU (1838-1902) "The Sculptor of the Republic" After a modest Parisian childhood Dalou began his career under the Second Empire. Napoleon III reigns over France and under his direction, Baron Haussmann transforms the capital. Paris becomes a gigantic construction site and the young Dalou learns his trade by creating decorative sculpture. But it was quickly interrupted by the war of 1870 and the Paris Commune in which Dalou took part. Forced into exile, the sculptor moved to London where he was a great success with English amateurs. During this period, he will produce more intimate subjects. He returned to France in 1879, thanks to the amnesty of the communards. The City of Paris then commissioned his most famous work, the "Triumph of the Republic" with revolutionary aesthetics. This masterpiece now sits in the center of the Place de la Nation (Paris). "The Triumph of the Republic" is the first of a long series of public monuments designed by Dalou for the capital. This very active period saw the erection of many monuments. Moreover, like all the sculptors of his time, he provided highly appreciated busts and decorative works for a private clientele. He will dedicate the end of his life to a project that is close to his heart: the "Monument to the workers", a monument where the work and the condition of the worker would be exalted. This project was never completed but there remains from this project the whole series of figurines, currently kept at the Petit Palais in Paris, representing "the workers of the fields and the cities", all sculpted with a concern for truth and realism. Galerie Paris-Manaus Sold with invoice and certificate Very good state of conservation General delivery conditions: We organize delivery worldwide. An estimate on request will be established at the time of your purchase.