French Art Nouveau bronze bust ‘Carmen’ by Emmanuel Villanis – circa 1900

French Art Nouveau bronze bust ‘Carmen’ by Emmanuel Villanis

A refined French Art Nouveau bust of Carmen, cast after a model by the renowned sculptor Emmanuel Villanis. The young woman is shown with a calm, slightly lowered gaze and a richly detailed upswept hairstyle.

Above her hair she wears a striking tall comb, giving the piece a distinctly theatrical air. This detail refers to the world of opera and theatre and to the exotic female figures so beloved during the Belle Époque. The loose shawl around her shoulders is vigorously modelled and gathers at the front in long pleated drapery.

Villanis was known for his elegant female busts, often inspired by literature, music and mythology. In this compact piece the contrast between the smoothly modelled skin and the more expressive treatment of the hair, clothing and base is beautifully visible. The bust is signed E. Villanis in the bronze along the draped shoulder. The back of the base bears the round foundry mark Vrai Bronze Garanti Paris; the front of the tapering base carries the title Carmen in relief.

Why we chose this piece

Over the years the dark brown patina has worn to warmer bronze tones on the raised areas of the face, shoulders, hair and clothing. This natural wear accentuates the modelling and gives the bust its authentic, lived-in character.

Style and interior

Its modest size makes it lovely on a mantelpiece, desk, console or bedside table, or within a collection of French bronzes. A refined historic accent in an Art Nouveau or Belle Époque interior, and equally in a calm modern setting.

Dimensions: height 16 cm, width 9 cm, depth 6 cm
Material: patinated bronze
Designer/Maker: Emmanuel Villanis
Title: Carmen
Signature: E. Villanis
Mark: Vrai Bronze Garanti Paris
Style: Art Nouveau
Period: circa 1900
Origin: France
Condition: good antique condition with wear, rubbing and small spots of patina loss consistent with age and use. No obvious restorations visible.

Price:
€ 895

Worldwide shipping is available. Shipping costs are calculated separately based on destination, size and weight.

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