Description:
Auguste Ledru – Gilded Bronze Art Nouveau Ewer-Vase
This impressive bronze ewer, designed by renowned artist Auguste Ledru, is a masterpiece that embodies the essence of the Art Nouveau period. The design features an elegant young nude woman clinging to the edge of the ewer, her posture both powerful and graceful. Around the body of the ewer, graceful nymphs are depicted in subtle relief, adding depth and dimension to the piece. The front of the ewer showcases a mythical face, lending the piece an air of mysticism and symbolism. The bronze is finished with its original gilding, further highlighting the exceptional quality of the work.
The bronze was cast by the renowned foundry Susse Frères Éditeurs, one of the most respected and celebrated producers of Parisian art bronzes in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Susse Frères was known for their craftsmanship and collaborated with some of the greatest artists of their time, including Auguste Ledru. Their castings are world-famous and highly sought after for their technical perfection and collector’s value. The Susse Frères hallmark on this ewer is a testament to its meticulous production and high artistic standard.
Auguste Ledru (1860–1902) was a French sculptor celebrated for his expressive and often symbolic works. His designs, including this ewer, are characterized by a profound sense of detail and symbolism. As an artist of the Art Nouveau movement, Ledru drew inspiration from nature, mythology, and the human form, which is evident in the delicate balance of elegance and strength in his work. His collaboration with Susse Frères was a golden partnership that resulted in artworks admired worldwide for their artistic and historical significance.