Emmanuel Frémiet, Jeanne d'Arc, 1906 replica of a 1872-74 originalState Library of Victoria forecourt, Melbourne
(Source)
(Source)
19th century French art was influenced by the social goings on of that century - not only the effect of the technological advances but also that the French population had a tendency to have a revolt or be in a war approximately every 20 years. Jeanne is an example of a post-Franco-Prussian War/Paris commune sculpture. The dramatic and defiant pose of the French heroine celebrates France's military past after their humiliation at the hands of the Prussians with the idea that God might send them another hero or heroine to deliver them from their hated enemies. The original (of sorts) is located at the Place des Pyramides, Paris, in all its gilded glory (below).
Thankfully, the Melbourne version was not gilded - can you imagine what it would look like on a bright 35+ degree day?! OUCH! The composition of Jeanne recalls the great quattrocento equestrian works - French sculpture of this period was referred to as néo-florentin reflecting influence Renaissance ideals. The Melbourne version was acquired as part of the Felton Bequest and placed outside what was then the National Gallery.
Other replicas of Jeanne are located in Portland, Oregon, Philadelphia, and quite fittingly for the Maid of Orléans, New Orleans.
Thankfully, the Melbourne version was not gilded - can you imagine what it would look like on a bright 35+ degree day?! OUCH! The composition of Jeanne recalls the great quattrocento equestrian works - French sculpture of this period was referred to as néo-florentin reflecting influence Renaissance ideals. The Melbourne version was acquired as part of the Felton Bequest and placed outside what was then the National Gallery.
Other replicas of Jeanne are located in Portland, Oregon, Philadelphia, and quite fittingly for the Maid of Orléans, New Orleans.
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