Statusbronze Raoul François Larche (1860-1912) The Sorrow Doreste*

Here is a description for your bronze: Raoul François Larche (1860-1912) – “La Douleur” Patinated bronze This bronze sculpture, made by Raoul François Larche, represents a young naked man in an expressive posture of melancholy and introspection. The title “La Douleur” suggests a scene of contained suffering, reinforced by his downcast gaze and his slightly bent position. The young man is standing, holding a fabric that he seems to be tightening or twisting, accentuating the impression of tension and contained emotion. At his side, a drape rests on a sculpted element, perhaps a base or a chest, adding a narrative dimension to the whole. The finish of the bronze is of high quality, with a dark and deep patina that highlights the subtle anatomical details and the finesse of the modeling. This work testifies to the talent of Raoul Larche, a symbolist and naturalist sculptor, known for his sensitive and expressive representations of the human body. A collector's item, this bronze perfectly illustrates the know-how of Art Nouveau and the French academic tradition of the late 19th century. Biography of Raoul François Larche (1860-1912) Raoul François Larche was a French sculptor of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, recognized for his style inspired by Art Nouveau and his talent for capturing grace and emotion in his works. Born in 1860 in Saint-André-de-Cubzac, he joined the École nationale supérieure des beaux-arts in Paris where he trained under renowned masters such as François Jouffroy and Alexandre Falguière. His work reflects an academic influence while evolving towards a freer and more expressive aesthetic. He won the Prix de Rome in 1886, which allowed him to refine his art and acquire institutional recognition. His style oscillates between symbolism, naturalism and influences of Art Nouveau, a movement of which he became one of the major figures. Raoul Larche is particularly famous for his sculptures inspired by dance and femininity, including his iconic work “Lampe Loïe Fuller”, which pays homage to the famous American dancer and illustrates the union between art and decorative function typical of Art Nouveau. He also carried out commissions for public and religious monuments, as well as sculptures exploring mythological and allegorical themes, such as “La Douleur”, which illustrates his ability to express human emotions with great sensitivity. He died prematurely in 1912, leaving behind a refined and poetic sculptural legacy that continues to fascinate collectors and art lovers.