Malvina Hoffman (1885-1956)

'La Frileuse'

Details

Malvina Hoffman (1885-1956)
'La Frileuse'
inscribed 'Malvina Hoffman' (on the lotus center)--inscribed 'Roman Bronze Works NY' (along the base)
bronze with weathered patina
39¼ in. (99.7 cm.) high
Executed circa 1913.

Provenance

Acquired directly from the artist by the parents of the present owner, 1924.

Literature

A. Alexandre, Malvina Hoffman, Paris, France, 1903, p. 13, another example illustrated.
J. Conner and J. Rosenkranz, Rediscoveries in American Sculpture: Studio Works 1893-1939, Houston, Texas, 1989, pp. 54, 62.

Lot Essay

Determined to study with the celebrated French sculptor Auguste Rodin, Malvina Hoffman settled in Paris, France in 1910. Armed with letters of introduction, Hoffman sat on Rodin's doorstep until he agreed to see her. Hoffman presented Rodin with photographs of her work, which amply impressed the master. Rodin consequently invited Hoffman to bring her sculptures to him for criticism. La Frileuse was modeled during Hoffman's stay in Paris, under Rodin's auspices. The French sculptor's influence is evident in the present work's naturalism and fluid movement.

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