Bronze cast, representing the lyrical poetess of Ancient Greece “Sappho”, playing her mythical instrument “the lyre”, by the sculptor Emmanuel Villanis (1858-1914).
Sappho embodies a figure of freedom and passion, her name remains associated with the celebration of love and beauty, making her a timeless literary and feminine icon.
Known for the lyrical beauty of her verses, she is one of the first authors to express the intensity of romantic feelings in her poems.
Emmanuel Villanis excels in the art of portraiture, his sculpture is emblematic of Art Nouveau, as much by the subjects evoked, as by the fluid forms and the expressions marked by sensitivity.
The sculptor built his reputation on his production of female subjects.
The sculptor's signature, "E.Villanis", is incised on the naturalistic terrace.
Circular foundry stamp "Société des bronzes de Paris" on the back of the sculpture.
Old edition sculpture, early 20th century period, Art Nouveau.
Very good state of preservation and patina.

Dimensions: 72 cm x 25 cm x 17.5 cm

Emmanuel Villanis (1858 – 1914)

Emmanuel Villanis is a famous sculptor, from a family of Italian origin.
He is recognized as one of the leading representatives of the Art Nouveau period.

In 1871, the young man enrolled at the Albertina Academy of Fine Arts in Turin.
There he studied under the sculptor "Odoardo Tabacchi".
As soon as he finished his studies, his master encouraged him to exhibit: his bust "Alda" was presented in Milan in 1881.
He fled Italy because of the War of Independence.

In 1885, E.Villanis settled in Montmartre, a district of Paris that he never left.
The artist's fame is built on his production of female figures: "Aida", "Judith", "Sappho", "Delilah", "Lucretia", "Cinderella".
Emmanuel Villanis's work brings together the great heroines of opera, literature, mythology and the Bible.
E. Villanis also discusses certain types: the Bohemian woman, the Chatelaine, or even the Parisian woman…
Several allegories, including "Painting" and "Sculpture".
Made mainly in bronze, sometimes chryselephantine, Emmanuel Villanis' sculptures bear the title lettering which regularly adorns the base.
His use of patinas further enhances the finesse of his lines, making Emmanuel Villanis one of the major sculptors of Art Nouveau.

E. Villanis participated in the Universal Exhibition of 1889 in Paris, and in that of Chicago in 1893.