Description
After Auguste Moreau - Classical "La Source" (The Spring), c. 1900 A Finely Cast French School Art Nouveau Bronze
??? An Allegory of Purity and Flowing Grace
This refined unsigned French School Art Nouveau bronze, cast circa 1900 after Auguste Moreau (1834-1917), perfectly embodies the Belle epoque's devotion to sensual form, elegance, and natural rhythm.
La Source portrays a nude young woman modestly turning her head as she gathers a flowing drapery that encircles her like a stream. The sculpture's soft modeling and fluid motion evoke the calm purity of a natural spring - the symbolic source of life and renewal.
Finished in a warm brown-green patina with golden undertones and resting on its original black marble base, this bronze measures 43 cm (17 in) in height and weighs 4.7 kg (10.4 lb) - a fine balance of scale, presence, and craftsmanship.
Artistic Context
This work is firmly rooted in the French School (ecole Française) of the late 19th century - the height of Parisian Art Nouveau. Sculptors such as Auguste Moreau, Desire Debut, and Louis-Ernest Barrias redefined allegory through form and movement, blending classical poise with modern naturalism.
The theme of La Source ("The Spring") - inspired by Ingres's 1856 painting - became a symbol of purity, feminine grace, and harmony with nature.
This bronze reflects Moreau's influence through its graceful anatomy, lyrical drapery, and romantic expressiveness, hallmarks of the leading foundries of the period such as Societe des Bronzes de Paris or Siot-Decauville, renowned for their superior lost-wax casting techniques.
Details
Artist: After Auguste Moreau (French School, 1834-1917)
Title: La Source (The Source)
Medium: Bronze with warm brown-green patina on black marble base
Dimensions: 43 cm H × 12.5 cm W × 11 cm D Widest point of lady is 14.5 cm
Weight: 4.7 kg (10.4 lb)
Signature: Unsigned (typical of foundry casts of this model)
Origin: French School, Belle epoque period
Why You'll Love It
Timeless Elegance: A luminous portrayal of purity and feminine grace - quintessential Belle epoque beauty.
Authentic French School Craftsmanship: Genuine period casting with exquisite chasing and harmonious proportions.
Natural Poetry: Drapery and form flow together like water - serene, sensual, and refined.
Collector Appeal: A sought-after subject after Moreau, ideal for curated interiors or sculpture collections.
Condition Report
This sculpture is in good original condition, consistent with age and careful private ownership.
The patina is deep and even - a warm brown-green hue with soft golden accents that enhance the sculptural depth.
There is surface rubbing on high points of the arm and shoulder exposing the natural bronze beneath; this is considered normal and desirable patina wear for period bronzes.
Minor casting pores and small surface flecks are visible under close inspection, typical of early 20th-century foundry work. The black marble base shows wear and some minor chips consistent with age. No cracks or repairs noted. Overall, the piece retains its rich luster and sculptural integrity, presenting beautifully from all angles.
Professionally packaged and fully insured for safe global delivery.
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Reserve: $3,600.00
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In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Jasper52 specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Jasper52 within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Used
Buyer's Premium
20%
French Classical Bronze After Auguste Moreau Purity With Grace La Source c1900
Estimate $4,500-$5,500
Starting Price
$1,800
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Meet the Auction House
10563
4.5
54756
Landscape, Cityscape & Decorative Art
Jul 05, 2026 1:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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