Aristide Maillol (French, 1861 - 1944) Young Seated Woman, '...

Hammer

£7,500

Aristide Maillol (French, 1861 - 1944)
Young Seated Woman, 'Renoir's Bather', c. 1906

Plaster

Dimensions:
10 in. (24 cm) (H)

This model is known as "Baigneuse Renoir", because the painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir had an example in his collection. This statuette appears in several paintings by Renoir.

In 1906 Maillol modelled a portrait of Renoir (previously dated to 1907, however, it was referred to in a letter of 1906, written by Renoir). It is possible that Maillol made 'Jeune Fille assise' at the same time.

Previously, this sculpture was thought to have been one of the models sold by Maillol to Vollard, however, no record of it can be found in the Vollard papers, nor has any bronze example appeared to date with a Vollard provenance, even though there exist two photographs of the figure in the Fonds Vollard, RMN.

Models edited in bronze by the sculptor himself, prior to 1914, such as this one, were cast in limited numbers. To date, only three are known of this model. The detail of this plaster is comparable to that found on the bronze versions

It is not possible to ascertain exactly for which reason this plaster was cast. The varnish and the mould lines on the surface seem to indicate that it was used for bronze casting. However, as the incised lines are rather delicate, it is unlikely that this plaster was used repeatedly.

A certificate of authenticity is available with this lot upon request.