A PATINATED BRONZE FIGURE OF ZINGARA, FRANCE, MID-19TH CENTURY

This exquisite mid-19th-century bronze, titled Zingara, exemplifies Clésinger’s mastery of movement and Romantic neoclassicism. Conceived in Rome in 1858, the figure is rendered in a spirited contrapposto, capturing a Neapolitan dancer in mid-motion with upraised arms and a tambourine. Notably, this cast retains all three requisite marks of authenticity and quality: the artist's signature and date "J. Clesinger, Rome 1858" inscribed on the stump, the "F. Barbedienne Fondeur" foundry signature, and the circular "Réduction Mécanique A. Collas" seal. The sculpture is finished in a rich, multi-tonal chocolate brown patina, highlighting the intricate, fluttering drapery and delicate jewelry. Despite minor rubbing and two missing tambourine discs, it remains a quintessential example of Second Empire bronze-casting excellence.

Notes: Clésinger executed the original marble Zingara in Rome which after completion was exhibited at the Salon of 1859. The 1886 Barbedienne catalogue identifies the model as Zingara (Danseuse Napolitaine) au tambour de basque.

Ht. 22 inches