Henri Chapu (1833-1891) - Thiébault Frères Paris - Sculpture, "La Pensee" (Thought) - Napoleon III - Bronze, Marble - Second half 19th century

Exquisite 19th century French neoclassical bronze of a young seated woman in her thought. Neoclassical school. It sits on a beautiful red marble base with white veins. Signed H. CHAPU (1833-1891) and bears the Thiebaut Freres Paris foundry seal. Thiebaut foundry produced high quality bronzes in the 2nd half of the 19th century. The model depicts an allegory of Thought (La Pensee) as a young maiden raising her head in contemplation. Conceived in 1876, this sculpture received the Grand Prix at the Salon the following year. Chapu was a renowned academic sculptor whose work can be seen on the Opera, Sorbonne, Le Printemps and Orsay museum. Exceptional quality of the details and drapery. Chapu was awarded the Prix de Rome in 1855. Beautiful patina and overall condition.