Lot 347
After Giambologna (1529-1608). Mercury. This beautiful sculpted bronze of a leaping Mercury was crafted in France during the late 19th century after the work of Giambologna (Jean Boulogne), sculptor to the Medici family. An amazing homage to Giambologna's Mercury (c. 1580) which is housed in the Bargello Museum in Florence, this work is from the noted Elton John collection which was sold for charity at Sotheby's, London in 2003. The celebrated entertainer auctioned the furnishings of his London apartment and this piece was a focal point of the auction, indeed illustrated in the catalogue showing the work prominently displayed in his home.
Cast with the grace and balance mirroring the original, difficulty cast three-dimensional work by the 16th century master, Mercury, the swift messenger of the ancient Roman gods, glides on air from the cheeks of the cherub at his feet, with wings from his staff, traveler's helmet and feet.; bronze; rich dark brown patina; height: 35" (89cm.); base: 4 3/8" (11cm.); inscribed by the foundry: F. BARBEDIENNE FONDER, incised with the number 108 with the A. COLLAS REDUCTION MECANIQUE pastille and the title plaque MERCURE/ PAR JEAN DE BOLGNE/ (BARBEDIENNE FONDEUR). This is an excellent work with an important provenance and in superb condition.
Estimated Value $7,000 - 9,000.
Ex Sotheby's : Elton John and his London Lifestyle, auction, September 30, 2003, London.
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| Realized $6,000 |
