J. GAUTIER - Sculpture, Mephistopheles - 92 cm - Bronze - 1855

PRESENTATION: MEPHISTOPHELES (J. GAUTIER)
To the attention of the Sculpture Department / Acquisitions Directorate:
Herewith, I have the pleasure of presenting for your consideration an exceptional work of French Romanticism from the second half of the 19th century: the monumental sculpture "Mephistopheles", created by the renowned sculptor Jacques-Louis Gautier (Paris, 1831).
DESCRIPTION OF THE WORK:
This is a large-format edition (92 cm in height), cast in genuine bronze with a rich original chocolate-brown patina. The piece stands out for its Faustian iconography, presenting the characteristic slender silhouette and the cynical expression that earned Gautier acclaim from critics at the Paris World’s Fair of 1855.
AUTHENTICITY AND FOUNDRY DETAILS:
The sculpture bears provenance and quality marks etched on the base:
Author's Signature: Incised "J. GAUTIER".
Foundry Seal: "Boy. FT" (Jean Boy Fondeur, Paris), guarantee seal of a period edition produced in the Rue de Turenne workshops.
Condition of Integrity: The work is in extraordinary conservation condition, preserving its original estoque (sword) blade, a fragile element that is rarely preserved in specimens from this market.
MARKET VALUATION:
Due to its monumental dimensions and its bronze execution (surpassing the more common sheet-metal or smaller-scale versions), this work sits in the high-collection segment. It represents a unique opportunity for institutions or private collectors interested in French Romantic sculpture and 19th-century literary themes.
Attached herewith is the photographic dossier detailing the appearance, patina, and authenticity seals.
I remain at your full disposal.