Daniel Chester French (American, 1850-1931) Maquette Bronze of Two Figures (perhaps a Youth with a Muse)

Description:

Daniel Chester French (American, 1850-1931)

Maquette Bronze of Two Figures (perhaps a Youth with a Muse)
Signed or inscribed "D.C. French" in the bronze base at left side, incised "ROMAN BRONZE WORKS N-Y-" on the back of the base.
Bronze with brown/gold patina, height 12 3/4 in. (32.4 cm).
Condition: Dust and dirt to interstices.
Estimate $1,000-1,500

Width of sculpture is 8 7/8 in.

Staff at Chesterwood has shared that the maquette was in preparation for the Boston English School Group, a bronze from 1926. Chesterwood owns a plaster for the work, described as "Maquette for Boston English School / Study for Boston English [Latin] School Memorial, 1926. 12-3/4 in. height."

Chesterwood notes indicate that the work was commissioned and awarded to Daniel Chester French on Feb. 3, 1926 to be finished by October 1, 1927, by Albert H. Wiggins (an alumnus of the school). By January 25, 1928 the work had been completed, and the dedication held then. It is likely titled "Alma Mater and the Student." It shows a draped allegorical female figure with her right arm around the shoulders of a school boy and holding his right hand. Her head is tilted to the right looking at the boy. In her left hand, balanced by her left hip, she holds a tablet with supposed words on it: "BE CLEAN BE COURTEOUS BE SQUARE." In January 1928, a cast of the English High School Group was made for Arthur Wiggins and cast at Roman Bronze Works.

We would like to thank Dana Pilson of Chesterwood for researching the background of this sculpture.


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.