Description:

Presented is a wonderful statue bust depicting an Art Nouveau lady as an allegory of Summer, the wildly blowing hair somewhat tamed by an opulent bonnet, the head thrown smilingly into the neck, the base made of curved stylised bands. She is wearing a chemise and a corset - half-naked by Victorian standards. A tennis racket is placed in front and the word "L'Été" (Summer in French) is written in the base in large Art Nouveau script

It was created by Franz Iffland - a sculptor in Berlin (1862-1935). He was often represented at Berlin exhibitions with portrait busts and genre figures (several academy exhibitions, international exhibition in 1891 and large art exhibition in 1893).

The ladies bust sculptures were a huge part of Art Nouveau movement. Such artists as Van der Straeten, Emmanuele Villanis, Alphons Nelson, Alfred Foretay, Victor Seifert and many others were creating this very popular (and commercially successful) sculptures in bronze and less expensive bronzed metal.

The statue is made of patinated bronzed metal  - very nicely cast with wonderful appearance. No damage or repairs to the metal. Some age-related patination wear. 

The signature of Franz Iffland in intials is shown on the right side.

The statue is quite elegant and impressive. It stands 12" tall.

Please note - this is the real statue from the Art Nouveau period - not a modern reproduction.