French 1870 Period Bronze

A striking and highly impressive bronze figure on marble, measuring 81cm in total height from the base to the tip of the bayonet, with the bronze figure itself standing 59cm tall. Signed to the base by the sculptor ‘E. Marloton’, the figure is finished in a rich patinated green and depicts a French infantryman of the 1870 period in full combat order.

He wears the classic kepi with a clearly defined ‘7’ to the front, indicating the 7th Infantry Regiment, and is shown fully equipped with pack, accoutrements and his rifle carried at the ready, complete with fixed Gras or Lebel bayonet. Facial detail is excellent, including a neatly rendered goatee beard, and the overall sculpting is crisp, deep and full of character.

Mounted on a substantial marble base, this is a very heavy decorative piece and an outstanding centrepiece or backdrop for a Franco–Prussian War or early French WWI display.

Ref; 95595 XMF