H. Gladenbeck & Sohn - Sculpture, Art Nouveau - 37 cm - Patinated bronze

A brilliant and high-quality antique bronze sculpture of a (half)naked classical female figure (the muse Erato or an allegory of Music), elegantly leaning against a pedestal. The statue is rich in symbolism: the lady holds a large antique lyre (string instrument) that rests on the behind pillar. The pedestal itself is beautifully decorated with two seated lions and refined Jugendstil/Art Nouveau reliefs (including a graceful heart motif on the side).

Origin and Quality:
This sculpture was cast by the world-renowned German top foundry Aktien-Gesellschaft vorm. H. Gladenbeck & Sohn from Berlin. The official foundry mark is crisply engraved in the bronze plinth ("Aktien-Gesellschaft vorm. H. Gladenbeck & Sohn."). The wording with "vorm." (vormals) dates this specific cast exactly to the bloom period of the foundry, between 1888 and the early 20th century.
The sculpture was issued as a so-called 'Verlagsbronzé' (publisher bronze), whereby the foundry held exclusive rights, which explains the exceptionally tight finish and detailing. The bronze rests on a very handsome, original and heavy veined marble base.

Specifications:
* Material: Patinated bronze on a two-tone marble plinth
* Foundry: Aktien-Gesellschaft vorm. H. Gladenbeck & Sohn (Berlin)
* Period: ca. 1890 - 1900 (Late 19th century / Jugendstil)
* Height: 37 cm
* Weight: 5,400 grams (5.4 kg)
* Condition: In magnificent antique condition with a very deep, rich patina. No restorations. (See photos for a full personal impression).

A splendid, heavy, museum-worthy collectible for enthusiasts of historical Berlin quality bronze and classical academic art.