Albert Carrier-Belleuse (1824-1887), Biscuit Porcelain Sculpture of a Breastfeeding Woman, 19th Century

This prolific sculptor, active throughout three-quarters of the 19th century, distinguished himself with decorative sculptures influenced by Italy. Napoleon III personally supported him, and he became one of the greatest sculptors of the Second Empire. A mentor to Rodin and a friend of Charles Garnier, he sculpted busts of political and cultural figures of the time, as well as those of ordinary people in charming everyday scenes. This biscuit porcelain edition of a breastfeeding woman is a prime example, in excellent condition. The young woman’s attire evokes the Italian Renaissance, and her elegantly shod foot, resting on an amphora, recalls the ancient past of that admired Italy.