Important Bronze "Le Progrès" signed E. Picault – Late 19th Century

Superb allegorical bronze by Émile-Louis Picault, one of the most iconic sculptors of the late 19th century. This work, entitled Le Progrès (Progress), perfectly exemplifies his energetic, narrative and deeply symbolic style.
The composition, mounted on a rotating base, depicts a young nude male figure, his body taut and torso slightly twisted, embodying humanity's vital drive towards knowledge. His upward stance, almost Promethean in character, conveys the era's absolute faith in science, learning and human intelligence. Pressed against a globe, he holds a compass in his right hand. Beneath him, tools represent the scientific and industrial forces of the age.
The base is adorned with a plaque bearing the inscription: "Son of science, he draws mankind upward in its ascending and eternal evolution." A phrase perfectly attuned to the spirit of the artist, who frequently paired his bronzes with mottos extolling effort, clarity and elevation. The artist's signature appears on the terrace. A cartouche inscribed "Le Progrès par E. Picault" is located on the front face of the rotating base.
A commanding and charismatic large bronze in which Picault's art — master of heroic figures and moral allegories — brilliantly expresses the momentum and nobility of human progress.



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Period: Late 19th century

Very good condition.

Shipping quoted on request within France and internationally.

Dimensions:
Width: 27 cm
Depth: 27 cm
Height: 52 cm

Reference: 531V