Bronze Statuette, Tunisian Water Carrier By Jean Didier Debut (1824-1893)

**Tunisian Water Carrier** by Jean Didier Debut (1824-1893) is an orientalist bronze sculpture which embodies with precision and grace the emblematic figure of the water carrier. Measuring 30 cm in height without its base, this work impresses with its meticulous details and striking realism. The marble base, measuring 4 cm in height and 15 cm in width, adds stability and elegance to the sculpture which harmoniously completes the whole. Jean Didier Debut, a 19th-century French sculptor, is recognized for his expressive and detailed works, often inspired by the Orient. The Orientalist period, an artistic movement of the 19th century, is characterized by a fascination with the cultures and scenes of life of the Orient, often idealized and romanticized by Western artists. **Tunisian Water Carrier** fits perfectly into this context, capturing a scene of daily life in Tunisia with great finesse and particular attention to detail. The sculpture depicts a traditionally dressed man carrying containers of water. The folds of his clothing, the expression of his face and the posture of his body are rendered with remarkable precision, testifying to Debut's talent for capturing movement and emotion in bronze. The water bearer, a pivotal figure in many cultures, symbolizes hard work and resilience, universal themes that find particular resonance in this work. The use of bronze allows Debut to render textures and details with extraordinary precision. The sculpture's patina adds an additional dimension, giving the work a depth and visual richness that captivates the viewer. Choosing marble for the plinth is not only a question of functionality, but also of aesthetics. The contrast between the coldness of marble and the warmth of bronze creates a visual balance that enhances the elegance of the sculpture. This work is not only an artistic representation, but also a window into a distant era and culture. It testifies to the interest and fascination of the West for the Orient in the 19th century, an interest often tinged with exoticism and romanticism. However, beyond this fascination, Debut's sculpture offers a human and touching perspective on daily life in Tunisia, paying tribute to the anonymous workers who played a crucial role in society. **The Tunisian Water Carrier** is a captivating piece that skillfully combines art, history and culture. The precision of the details, the quality of the execution and the thematic depth of the work make it an exceptional example of Orientalist sculpture. Jean Didier Debut, through this sculpture, invites us on a journey through time and space, allowing us to discover and appreciate a facet of Tunisian daily life in the 19th century. This work is a celebration of Debut's artistry and the cultural richness of the Orient, captured in bronze with unparalleled mastery.