Standing Duck
This very rare bronze sculpture has a fairly thick slate patina, with some weathering, revealing the first layer of reddish patina in places, as well as regular traces of green oxidation. This very special patina, created under the aegis of the artist, which has obviously evolved over time, gives the animal an unusual appearance and life.
The work is signed ‘POMPON’ close to the animal’s right paw.
Valsuani foundry stamp near the animal’s left paw.
The work was created in 1927.
Dimensions (with base):
Height : 7 ¼ in.
Length : 6 in.
Width : 4 ¼ in.
Remarks:
François Pompon worked for a number of sculptors, including Auguste Rodin and Alexandre Falguière, and from 1905 he devoted himself mainly to animal sculpture. His work is characterised by the poetry of form, the lyricism of light in the polished surfaces, the abandonment of any concern for naturalism, and the elimination of detail and anecdote.
Museums:
A bronze example with a black patina is in the Musée d’Orsay, Paris and was part of the exhibition « La Modernité – Collection du Musée d’Orsay » (Metropolitan Art Museum: Tokyo and City Museum: Kobe, Japan, 1996).
A bronze example is in the Musée de Dijon, Côte d’or, Leg Pompon. Inv: 1013.
Bibliography:
C. Chevillot, L, Colas, L. de Margerie, A. Pingeot, François Pompon 1855-1933, Gallimard/Electa-Réunion des musées nationaux : Paris, 1994, p. 182, n°8 C
Pompon : catalogue d’exposition (Musée des Beaux-Arts – Clermont-Ferrand : 14 sept. au 25 oct. 1999 and Galerie Brame & Lorenceau – Paris : 5 nov. au 18 déc. 1999), Brame & Lorenceau : Paris, 1999, p. 20-21 (similar bronze casting with a patina similar to our example)
