Early 20th Century French Joan-of-Arc Patinated Spelter Figure by Ernest Legrand

$2,900

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Crafted in France circa 1900, the antique sculpture depicts Sainte Jeanne d’Arc standing in armor clothing, and poetically waving the victory flag after the battle of Orleans. The sculpture, is signed on the base E. Legrand and features wonderful details including intricate plate armor with chain mail underneath, a flag with engraved Fleurs de Lys, and a knight helmet at her feet. The figure is set on a round red painted base with a plaque that reads “Jeanne d’ Arc par Legrand Grand Prix de Rome”. The decorative figure is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, and adorns a rich patinated silver finish; use it to decorate a shelf in a study or library! Joan of Arc (c. 1412–1431) was a young girl who became a national heroine of France and a saint in the Catholic Church. Claiming divine guidance, she led French forces to several crucial victories during the Hundred Years’ War, significantly boosting French morale and paving the way for the coronation of Charles VII. Captured by the English, she was tried for heresy and burned at the stake at the age of 19. Her courage and faith have made her a symbol of bravery and conviction. she is the patron saint of France and of soldiers. Ernest Legrand (October 4, 1872 – March 26, 1912) was a French sculptor and painter. Born in Lesmont, he began his artistic journey studying drawing and sculpture under the guidance of Léon Moynet at the Sainterie de Vendeuvre-sur-Barse. In 1890, Legrand moved to Paris and joined the studio of the renowned sculptor Alfred Boucher. In 1902, he played a key role in the creation of the city of artists La Ruche, for struggling artists. Legrand furthered his education at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, studying under Paul Dubois and Gabriel-Jules Thomas. Over his career, he produced approximately 84 works in marble, wood, wax, and bronze, and created around twenty watercolors and oil paintings. Listed in the Benezit (see last image). Measures: 8.75″ W x 7.5″ D x 27″ H.

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