Large Patinated Terracotta Sculpture – “the River”, After Jean-jacques Caffieri

Patinated terracotta sculpture – “The River”
After Jean Jacques Caffieri (French School of the 18th century)
Discover a work of great finesse and rare prestige: a patinated terracotta sculpture entitled “The River”, after a model by the famous sculptor Jean Jacques Caffieri.
This piece, signed on the base “Monsieur Caffier 1759”, is a remarkable reinterpretation of the original marble kept at the Louvre Museum in Paris.
Created towards the end of the 19th century, it illustrates the ability of artists of this period to pay homage to the masters of the 18th century while producing works of impeccable technical craftsmanship.
Description of the work
With a height of 58 cm, this terracotta sculpture captures the essence of French Baroque, a style that combines movement, emotion and refinement.
The patinated terracotta gives the piece a soft and warm texture, highlighting the subtleties of the modeling.
Every detail, from the folds of the drapery to the contours of the figure’s muscles, demonstrates the artist’s virtuosity and concern for accuracy in reproducing Caffieri’s original masterpiece.
The carefully applied patina adds additional depth to the work, simulating the appearance of aged bronze or marble while retaining the lightness of terracotta.
This technique, highly prized in the late 19th century, accentuates the sculpture’s timeless beauty and brings it aesthetically closer to the older works it seeks to imitate.
A historical inspiration
Jean Jacques Caffieri (1725-1792), a prominent member of the Académie royale de peinture et de sculpture, is known for his elegant and poetic depictions of mythological and allegorical figures. “Le Fleuve” is part of this tradition.
This sculpture evokes a powerful and symbolic figure, probably inspired by river deities or classical allegories related to the forces of nature.
The original, in marble, is kept at the Louvre Museum, a major French heritage site and guardian of the masterpieces of this period.
The terracotta version that we present here reflects the taste of 19th-century collectors for reproductions of emblematic sculptures.
These works, more accessible than the original marbles or bronzes, were often used to decorate elegant salons or private collections.
Authenticity and exclusivity
The signature inscribed on the base, “Monsieur Caffier 1759”, reinforces the historical interest of the piece, although it probably reflects a desire to pay homage to the original artist rather than a direct attribution.
This mention recalls the date on which Jean Jacques Caffieri created some of his major works, situating the inspiration in the context of the 18th century while anchoring the achievement in the great historicist wave of the late 19th century.
Dimensions and presentation
With a generous height of 58 cm, this sculpture offers an imposing and refined presence, ideal for enriching a collection or enhancing an interior.
The work is visible in my shop located in Rouen, right bank, a setting where it can be admired from all angles.
Its delicate patina and excellent state of conservation make it a rare and precious piece, at the crossroads of art, history and decoration.
A unique opportunity
Offered at a competitive price for a work of this quality and provenance, this sculpture represents a unique opportunity to acquire a timeless piece of art.
Whether you are an art lover, a passionate collector or simply looking for an exceptional object to enrich your heritage, "Le Fleuve" will meet your expectations.
Come and discover this sculpture in my shop in Rouen, right bank. Do not hesitate to contact me for more information or to organize a visit.
This item is available for sale in my shop at 57 rue Victor Hugo, 76000 Rouen, rives droite.

Possibility of delivery ( ask for a transport quote )
Transport to Paris twice a week. 

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