19th Century French Bronze Sculpture Signed Auguste Moreau / Allegory of Love and Innocence

19th Century French Bronze Sculpture Signed Auguste Moreau “Allegory of Love and Innocence” – A Symbolic Group of Children This bronze sculpture was supervised and authorized for casting during the lifetime of Auguste Moreau (1834–1917). It is one of multiple castings of the same theme from his lifetime, not a unique piece, but it belongs to the original series. In accordance with 19th-century French sculptural practices, small to medium-sized decorative bronzes like this were typically cast in batches during the artist's lifetime. A reasonable casting quantity for a single theme would range from a few pieces to several dozen, and the practice of numbered limited editions, common in later periods, was not yet in use. The base of the work features the original hand-carved signature “Aug. Moreau.” The inscription exhibits a natural rhythm in its form, with varying depths of engraving. Its edges are highly integrated with the surrounding patina, unlike the smooth inscription achieved through mold casting or later additions. The signature's placement on the side of the rocky base is a common and plausible arrangement found on Moreau's works from his lifetime. From a casting perspective, the sculpture is solidly cast with a significant weight of approximately 2.3 kilograms for its height of about 20 centimeters. The density and proportion of the bronze are consistent with late 19th-century French casting standards. The surface retains a natural aged patina, with high points polished brighter and recessed areas darkened, displaying traces of prolonged oxidation and use rather than the uniform color of chemically induced aging from later periods. The details are precisely finished without excessive polishing, aligning with the balance of efficiency and quality achieved during the artist's lifetime casting period. The composition depicts the natural interaction of two children. One child embraces a bouquet of flowers, symbolizing love, affection, and the innocence of spring, while the other responds with closeness, illustrating an idealized allegory of burgeoning emotion. This is a classic subject within the genre of 19th-century French "Allegorical Children" and represents one of Auguste Moreau's most characteristic creative directions during his lifetime. This is an authentic 19th-century French bronze sculpture, bearing the artist's signature, with evidence supporting its age, and exhibiting characteristics of lifetime casting. It is suitable for acquisition by discerning collectors who value art historical context and authenticity. The piece is in good condition, but as an antique, it inevitably bears traces of history. Please purchase only if you are able to accept these historical marks.