Raphaël Febrari (d. 1928) - Statue, Femme au papillon - 43 cm - Gilt bronze

Art Nouveau bust by Raphaël Febrari

Dimensions: 43 cm high, 25 cm long, 14 cm wide
Materials: gilded bronze and alabaster
Condition: Some minor visible damages (scratches and marks on the gilding).

This magnificent female bust, signed on the back 'R. Febrari Paris,' is a typical work of the Art Nouveau movement, probably dating from the late 19th or very early 20th century. It rests on a gilded bronze plinth with a square base and beveled corners, highlighting the delicacy of the entire piece.

The face of classical inspiration, with the softness of alabaster, makes delicate lines appear to fade into its surroundings.

This artist only attracts amateurs; his busts go through the best auction houses in London, Paris, NY, and now on Catawiki.

The face, sculpted in alabaster, offers a gentle and dreamy expression, emblematic of the feminine ideal of the period. The contrast between the delicate whiteness of the face and the golden richness of the hair and clothing immediately draws the eye. The hair is styled with an elegant headdress adorned with a butterfly or a stylized insect in relief — a motif dear to Art Nouveau, which celebrates nature and femininity.

The dress, finely carved in gilded bronze, features floral motifs and richly crafted folds, demonstrating the extreme care given to ornamental details. The overall exudes the elegance and sensuality characteristic of the naturalist and decorative aesthetic of Art Nouveau.

Raphaël Febrari
Little known to the general public, Raphaël Febrari was a sculptor active in Paris during the flourishing period of Art Nouveau. Although little information remains about his biography, his works are today sought after for their refinement and their typical Art Nouveau style.

The Art Nouveau movement
Art Nouveau (1890-1910) is a European artistic movement that encompasses architecture, decorative arts, and sculpture. It is characterized by sinuous lines, organic shapes, floral motifs, and a deep interest in nature. This movement advocates for a synthesis between art and craftsmanship, and values beauty in everyday objects as well as in works of art.

Condition:
The bust shows some minor visible flaws in the photos: slight scratches and traces of oxidation on the gilding, minimal and easily restorable, as well as some reflection of the gilding. These flaws do not detract from the artistic quality of the piece but would benefit from light restoration to restore its full brilliance.

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