Paul Dubois - The Harlequin

Dimensions: H x W x D: 59 x 19 x 18 cm

Description:
Figure standing on an almost square base. The base, with the appearance of wooden planks arranged in a row, represents the Harlequin's stage. Here you can also find the signature P. Dubois.

The Harlequin - in his typical costume with checkered patches - stands in the centre of the stage and appears to be ready to perform some magic or mischief with his slapstick.
The wide-legged stance and the position of the arms create a calm and balanced composition that is nevertheless full of dynamism. The proportions are perfect, the posture and the drapery look absolutely natural. The structure of the clothing is clearly recognisable and yet so restrained that the main focus remains on the overall composition.
The slightly brownish patina is typical of Dubois and also typical of the time when the bronze was created in the late 19th century.

Paul Dubois was born in Nogent-sur-Seine on 8 July 1827 and died in Paris on 22 May 1905.
The son of a notary, he initially studied law before enrolling at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in 1858 to devote himself entirely to sculpture. However, he only stayed there for a year and then went to Italy. The Florentine Renaissance sculptures made a strong impression on him and shaped the character of his own work.
As the great-nephew of the famous sculptor Jean-Baptiste Pigalle, he made his debut at the Salon de Paris in 1857 under the name Dubois-Pigalle. However, he only achieved his breakthrough as a sculptor with his "St John the Baptist as a Child" and above all with his "Florentine Singer", which were exhibited in 1864 and 1865 respectively. Numerous copies of both works were produced and a "Florentine Singer" made of silver-plated bronze was exhibited at the 1867 World Exhibition.
Other famous works by Dubois include the 1879 tomb of General Lamoricière in Nantes Cathedral, the Connétable de Montmorency in Chantilly Castle from 1886 and Joan of Arc in Reims, a four-metre-high bronze sculpture that was inaugurated in 1896.

Interesting facts:
The Harlequin was a figure from the 16th century "Commedia Dell Arte". He is easily recognised by his mask and the diamond-shaped patches on his clothes. He usually carries a slapstick or a mandolin. He is generally portrayed as lithe, athletic, funny and amoral. Dancing, singing, comedy and drama were part of his stagecraft and improvised performances.

Condition:
Very nice overall condition with rubbing of the patination on the slapstick in the area of the hand.

Price: 2200,- €