Lot 271: Jules-Félix Coutan, (French 1848-1939) A Rouge Griotte marble, gilt and patinated bronze figural torchère

A Rouge Griotte marble, gilt and patinated bronze figural torchère
surmounted by a glass and frosted glass shade, on a circular base signed to the top Coutan and to the side Thiebaut Fres Fondeurs, raised on a circular wooden base, 50cm wide, 50cm deep, 205cm high (19.5" wide, 19.5" deep, 80.5" high).

Coutan had a highly successful career as a sculptor and designer, which began with his winning the Prix de Rome in 1871 whilst studying under Pierre-Jules Cavelier at the École des Beaux-Arts. He went on to contribute to the sculptural decoration of many of Paris' most important buildings, such as the Hôtel de Ville and the Palais de Justice. His international portfolio included a pediment in New York's Grand Central Station and a monument to Carlos Pelligrini in Buenos Aires. He was Director of Design at the Sèvres Porcelain factory in the 1890s, before replacing Falguière at the Académie des Beaux-Arts in 1900.

Provenance:
From a private European collection.