Bust of a Woman

Ref: 2348

Bust of a Woman

Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse

Ref: 2348

Bust of a Woman

Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse

19th Century
Terracotta
44.5 cm (17¹/₂ inches)
France
Signed on the wooden base: A. Carrier-Belleuse
Exhibition: A plaster version dated 1868 is situated in the musée des Beaux-arts de Bordeaux, iv. BX 1983-7-1
Literature: J. D. Drapper and G. Scherf, Playing with Fire, European Terracotta Models 1740 – 1840. New York 2003
Les Sculptures Européennes du Musée du Louvre by G. Bresc-Bautier, Paris 2006
Pierre Kjellberg, Les Bronzes du XIX siècle, Dictionnaire des sculpteurs, p. 202-208
Berman Bronzes Sculptors 6 Founders, p. 1205 fig. 4871
Description: Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse
Terracotta on a wooden base

Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse

Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse
Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse (1824–1887) was a French sculptor and designer whose work defined the decorative richness of the Second Empire. Trained initially as a goldsmith, he brought exceptional refinement to busts, mythological figures, allegories and ornamental sculpture in bronze, marble, terracotta and porcelain. His studio supplied works for major Parisian projects, including the Louvre, the Paris Opéra and other architectural commissions, while his elegant female busts became especially admired by collectors.

Carrier-Belleuse also worked internationally, designing for Minton in England, and from 1876 served as artistic director of the Sèvres porcelain manufactory, helping renew its sculptural production. His workshop was an important training ground. Auguste Rodin worked under him early in his career. Combining academic modelling, theatrical grace and industrial decorative arts, Carrier-Belleuse turned sculpture into a language of luxury, ornament and modern Parisian taste.

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