Antique bronze statue of Hermes, signed. The story of Ferdinand Barbedienne and his French metalworks foundry is almost legendary. Amongst sculptors, this foundry was considered the ultimate in quality. Barbedienne and his partner mastered a technique to take early bronzes and reduce them in size for a burgeoning market. The older pieces were made after classical sculpture, both Roman and Greek. Later pieces were cast for current masters of the Victorian Age. Barbedienne's death cast a shadow on the industry for years, and he is remembered for reaching a zenith in bronze making.
Here we see Hermes, son of Zeus, being born aloft on the wind, as messenger to the gods. His father gave him the domed hat to protect him from the elements and the winged sandals for swiftness. He bears the herald's staff, or caduceus as his totem. The perfect gift for the doctor in your family
Approximate Dimensions: 26"H X 10 1/2" (Leg span) Black marble base measures 6" X 6"
