A pair of French bronze figures of Amphitrite and Cybele, third quarter 19th century
No VAT will be charged on the hammer price, but VA… Read more
A pair of French bronze figures of Amphitrite and Cybele, third quarter 19th century

Details
A pair of French bronze figures of Amphitrite and Cybele, third quarter 19th century
Cast after Auguste Moreau, the former loosely draped, a trident in her right hand, standing in a scallopshell flanked by dolphins, the waisted circular base inscribed AMPHITRITE PAR AUG. MOREAU, MEDAILLE AU SALON; the latter also loosely draped, with corn sheafs in her hands, standing on a foliate cast base inscribed CYBELE PAR AUG. MOREAU... both on waisted marmo rouge griotte bases -- 15¼in. (38.7cm.) high (2)
Special notice
No VAT will be charged on the hammer price, but VAT at 17.5% will be added to the buyer's premium which is invoiced on a VAT inclusive basis.

Lot Essay

Amphitrite of the Blue Waves was the daughter of Nereus and grand-daughter of Oceanus. She was seen dancing on the shores of Naxos by Poseidon who instantly fell in love with her. Dolphins ultimately persuaded Amphitrite to marry the Sea God, and so she is usually portrayed with them as her escort.
Cybele, Magna Mater, was viewed as the mother of all Life. She was held in particular reverence by women who prayed to her for successful childbirths. Cybele was also identified with Demeter, Mother of the corn, another female deity associated with fertility and fruitfulness, hence the sheafs held by the goddess in this example.

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