Description:
Constantin Emile Meunier (Belgian, 1831-1905)
La Moisson, from Monument au Travail
Signed "C. Meunier" in the bronze at u.r. corner, foundry stamp "VERBEYST.FONDEUR./BRUXELLES." at side edge l.l.
High-relief bronze with brown/black patina, 23 1/2 x 32 1/4 in. (59.5 x 82.0 cm),presented on a standing wood easel on casters.
Condition: Dust and dirt to interstices.
Provenance: Henry Saltonstall Howe, Brookline, by descent to current owner.
N.B. The Monument au Travail, erected in Brussels by the architect Mario Knauer in 1930, features five bronze sculptures and four high reliefs by the sculptor Constantin Meunier. Meunier began work on this project in the 1890s, although it was erected 25 years after his death. The high-reliefs on the sides, associated with the four elements, have as subject: Industry (fire),which depicts workers carrying a crucible from which molten glass escapes; Mine (earth),which depicts miners attacking a coal seam; The Harvest (the air) that depicts a family reaping; and The Port (water) that depicts active dockworkers. This bronze relief corresponds to the scultpure representing The Harvest.
Estimate $18,000-22,000
Easel measures 69 inches high and 27 7/8 inches wide, depth at floor level 24 inches.
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.
Keywords
Constantin Emile Meunier, Mario Knauer, Henry Saltonstall Howe, Brussels, BRUXELLESRobin S.R. Starr
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American & European Works of Art
The American & European Works of Art department brings years of experience, connoisseurship, and knowledge of art history to bear in every fine art appraisal, evaluation, and auction.