19th Century Alabaster Sculpture After Falconet "la Baigneuse"

This exquisite alabaster sculpture is a refined interpretation of "La Baigneuse" (The Bather), originally created by the renowned French sculptor Étienne-Maurice Falconet in the mid-18th century. Known for his delicate treatment of the female form and his ability to convey grace and sensuality with subtlety, Falconet’s Bather became one of the most iconic representations of neoclassical taste in the decorative arts.

The figure is depicted nude, in a moment of quiet intimacy, holding a small sphere and resting one hand on a column draped with fabric. Her head is slightly bowed, and her gentle expression evokes a sense of introspection and softness. The figure’s elegant posture, with one leg subtly bent and the weight shifted delicately to the other, creates a harmonious balance and a fluid sense of movement.

Carved in alabaster, the sculpture has a luminous, velvety surface that enhances the refined modeling of the body, the finely detailed hair, and the naturalistic folds of the drapery. This material lends the figure a timeless quality, echoing the marble originals of the 18th century while bringing its own delicate glow.

This piece exemplifies the neoclassical fascination with antiquity, ideal beauty, and the private moments of mythological or allegorical figures. A beautiful addition to any collection, it brings the charm and elegance of 18th century French sculpture into the 19th century interior.