Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd

Description

Classical Grand Tour French Bronze Group – “Call of the Triton Conch” After Clodion, c.1820 – In the Manner of Gonon Frères, Paris
Description
A magnificent early 19th-century French bronze depicting three sea putti, one as a young Triton sounding a conch shell while the others move in animated harmony. Cast entirely in solid patinated bronze — including its rare fully integrated bronze base — this impressive sculpture exemplifies the finest Parisian craftsmanship of the Grand Tour period.
Modelled in the spirit of Clodion (Claude Michel), it captures the Rococo grace, swirling movement, and expressive charm of his celebrated school. The original warm patina and fine ciselure (hand-chasing) remain visible throughout the hair, anatomy, and drapery, enhancing the lifelike fluidity of the group.

Weight: approx. 35 kg
Foundry Attribution – In the Manner of Gonon Frères, Paris
The sculpture’s dense alloy, refined surface, and integrated bronze base closely correspond to castings by the renowned Gonon Frères atelier, active c.1800–1830.
Their workshop was admired for thick-walled castings, exceptional surface finishing, and the rare practice of casting sculpture and base as a single unified bronze.
Although unsigned and unstamped — typical of early 19th-century bronzes — the casting quality strongly supports an attribution in the manner of Gonon Frères.
Casting Technique
Produced using a sophisticated hybrid of lost-wax casting (for the figures) and sand casting (for the heavy base), the piece displays remarkable solidity and structural unity. Such craftsmanship, uniting the group and base into one solid bronze, was a hallmark of high-quality Restoration-period foundries and became rare after the 1830s.
About Clodion (Claude Michel, 1738–1814)
Clodion’s influence on French sculpture was profound. His terracottas of playful nymphs, satyrs, and putti epitomized Rococo grace and vitality.
Although this bronze dates from c.1820 — slightly after his lifetime — it clearly belongs to the École de Clodion, continuing his legacy of movement and charm.
Mythological Theme
The composition depicts Triton, son of Poseidon, calling the sea with his conch shell. Reimagined here as cherubic putti, the subject conveys the romantic spirit and maritime poetry beloved by early 19th-century collectors.
Date & Origin
France, Circa 1820
Early Restoration Period
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Provenance
Distinguished private collection, Surrey, UK
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Highlights
Authentic early 19th-century French bronze
Modelled after Clodion, in the manner of Gonon Frères
Thick-walled integrated casting with superb surface finish
Original patina and fine ciselure throughout
Museum-quality Grand Tour piece with exceptional weight and presence
Shipping
Worldwide delivery available. Professionally packed and fully insured for safe transit.
Summary
An imposing and superbly cast French bronze of the early 19th century, combining the classical imagination of Clodion with the refined technique of Paris’s finest foundries.
This “Call of the Triton Conch” group represents a rare opportunity to acquire a true Grand Tour masterpiece — rich in artistry, provenance, and historical importance.
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Registered Office Address

Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD

71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London, United Kingdom, WC2H 9JQ

Company Number 15666518
GB VAT registration number 466128775


Making Payment
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