Jupiter with the thunderbolts clutched in his upraised right hand, the eagle at his side, Juno holding a scepter (broken) in her right hand and with the peacock at her side, both on square bases with naturalistic ground, upon associated molded gilt bronze plinths.



 

Sotheby's London, April 21, 1988, lot 103

RELATED LITERATURE

P. Fusco, Summary Catalogue of European Sculpture in The J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles, 1997

Standard surface wear. Some good early patches. Gilt bases with four piercings on each side for attachment. Lovely quality.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This pair of finely chased figures recalls the work of several sculptors employed in France during the latter part of the 17th century and the early 18th century. Features on the figure of Jupiter can be compared with those on figures of Jupiter attributed to Michel Anguier. The facial type, turn of the head, roll of drapery on the central section of the body and the overall composition are similar; see Fusco (op.cit., p. 2). 

The figure of Juno may be loosely based on Anguier's Ceres (see the Collection formed by the British Rail Pension Fund, sold Sotheby's London July 4, 1996, lot. 46) in the general pose and the long, vertical rows of stippling on her undergarment. One must also compare  a pair of bronze figures of Atalanta and Meleager, catalogued as "after Grupello", an example of which sold at Sotheby's London July 4, 1991, lot 159. The size, finish and facial types, particularly of the Atalanta, are similar.

While the aforementioned details are clearly inspired by the work of known sculptors working in France, the general proportions, surface treatment and drapery style of the present pair of bronzes appear to be of this sculptor's own inve𒁏ntion.