Antiques, Decorative and Fine Arts Auction
Lot 346:
Signed Henri Hebert (Canadian, 1884-1950) 1919 Life is strewn with brambles and thorns, Roman Bronze Works NY
Description
Henri Hebert (1884-1950), was an inaugural member of the Arts Club of Montreal (1912-1967). Two compositions entitled “La Vie est Parsemée de Ronce et D’Épines » exist. The first dated 1913, is a classically inspired composition that was adopted by the newly instituted Arts Club of Montreal as its emblem and used on stationery and promotions. The bronze presented here is the second version dated to 1919. Following Henri Hebert’s travels to Paris and Rodin’s influence, this 1919 composition (a reworking of the classically inspired “old fashion” 1913 model) may be considered one of the first modernist sculptures in Canada. Its beauty and significance are reflected by its sweet-spot placement on the William and Edward Maxwell designed arts and crafts carved mantlepiece which was flanked by Paul Beau lighting fixtures. (see image “Henri Hebert 1884-1950 UN SCULPTEUR MODERNE” Musee du Quebec, catalogue by Janet Brooke. Pg. 24).
This composition is recorded in plaster, but the Arts Club of Montreal bronze example was executed by the New York “Roman Bronze Works” foundry by request of the artist. The ACOM example and the period example offered here (which was in possession of a Montreal family) are both inscribed with the RBW inscription for Roman Bronze Works. Posthumous examples are recorded without the foundry mark.
Henri Hebert was also affiliated with the Art Association of Montreal, the Pen and Pencil club and the Beaver Hall group, Founding member of the Sculptors Society of Canada and a member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts.
Dimensions: Mounted on a turned wood base, measuring 9 inches H x 5 W, 11 inches H with base.
Condition report:
This sale is made without warranty whatsoever at the sole risk and peril of the buyer. All sales are final. Cette vente se fait sans aucune garantie, aux risques et périls de l\'acheteur. Toute vente est définitive. IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE BUYER TO VERIFY THE CONDITION AND/OR AUTHENTICITY OF THE ITEM, EITHER IN PERSON DURING OUR VIEWING HOURS PRIOR TO AUCTION OR THROUGH REQUESTED CONDITION REPORTS. Although care is taken to photograph and describe the item, absence of a condition report does not imply perfect condition. All bids are final and are subject to our terms and conditions.
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