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Pair of Orientalist bronze busts by Cordier, 1861

Creator: Charles-Henri-Joseph Cordier
Offered by: Mayfair Gallery

Description
Pair of Orientalist bronze busts by Cordier, 1861
French, 1861
Man: Height 42cm, width 32cm, depth 18cm
Woman: Height 40cm, width 26cm, depth 16cm

This impressive pair of bronze busts were made by the renowned French sculptor Charles-Henri-Joseph Cordier (1827-1905). Known for his Orientalist works in bronze and marble, Cordier gained inspiration from his visits to Algeria. The male figure of this pair is after a study made during one of these visits.

The figures form a wonderfully contrasting pair. The male bust wears a more sombre, downturned expression, whilst the female smiles almost sleepily. Both faces are expertly carved to achieve a human likeness, and the two figures are similarly dressed in embellished shirts and robes. The patination is exceptional throughout, providing light and shade to the facial features and garments. Gilding can also be seen on the woman’s earring. Both busts sit on flared bronze plinths, and are signed 'Cordier 1861'.

The originals of these two sculptures were both bought by Napoleon III in the 1860s, after which Cordier went on to make several further models of each in both marble and bronze. The models were displayed at the 1860 Palais de l'industrie, Paris, and the 1862 International Exhibition, London.

A very similar pair sold at Christie’s, Stephane Boudin at 5 Belgrave Square, Les Objets de L'Empire & Mount Kennedy, Ireland. Three Private Collections, London, 16 March 2012, Lot 102 (£58,850).

With a fascinating imperial legacy, these elegant Orientalist pieces would suit both a traditional and a contemporary interior.

Artist/Maker: Charles-Henri-Joseph Cordier

More Information

Documentation:	Signed
Origin:	France
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Patinated bronze.
Creation Date:	1861
Styles / Movements:	Other
Dealer Reference #:	17588
Incollect Reference #:	738162

Dimensions

W.	12.6 in;	H.	16.54 in;	D.	7.09 in;
W.	32 cm;	H.	42 cm;	D.	18 cm;

Message from Seller:

Mayfair Gallery is a leading gallery in the field of art and antiques, holding a large collection of unique pieces for sale. The breadth of the gallery’s collection is wide, and includes items from a range of periods, styles and geographical origins, as well as works by famous artists and craftsmen. The main focus of the gallery’s collection is, however, on items produced during the 19th and early 20th century.