[MERCIE, Marius Jean Antonin (1845-1916), sculptor]. [BONAPARTE, Napoleon (1769-1821), subject]. Large Bronze Sculpture of Napoleon Defeated. [France, ca. 1880]. This is the largest of the Mercie series of the Emperor, a heroic and moody figure of Napoleon on Elba contemplating the loss of his Empire in 1814, a catastrophe symbolized by the fallen eagle at his feet. Approximately 34” high. A master at catching the emotion of the moment, Mercie is recognized as one of the great artists of his time and original examples of his work are scarce and highly desirable. Among his most admired examples is the life-size figure of David in the Musée d’Orsay; Le Souvenir, a marble statue for the tomb of Mme. Charles Ferry, and monuments to Meissonier and Adolph Thiers. Fine. Third party shipping required.