Albert-ernest Carrier-belleuse (1824-1887), Sappho, Terracotta, 19th Century.

Depicting an ancient Greek poetess who lived in the 7th and 6th centuries BC. AD, at Mytilene on the island of Lesbos. She is known for having expressed in her writings her attraction to other women, hence the term "sapphism" to designate female homosexuality. Signed on the embakment: A. Carrier-Belleuse. Good condition. Dimensions: 20 x 15 cm H: 58.5 cm. One of the most prolific artists of the century, he enjoyed great success during the Second Empire, benefiting from the personal support of Napoleon III. His work is influenced by the style of the Renaissance and the 18th century which he wants to bring up to date. In his workshop in Paris, he trained many young artists among them: Rodin, Falguière and Chéret. It was to him that Garnier turned for the torchieres of the Opera. His critics call him a “sculpting machine” as he obsessively devotes himself to his art.