F. J. Bosio Henry IV Gilt Bronze Sculpture

This gilt bronze figurine depicting William IV as a child, by Francois Joseph Bosio (1768-1845) or cast after a model by the artist, measures 16" by 6" by 5". It is signed "Bosio" in the base and the underside bears the mark "MB", possibly an early mark of Barbedienne of Paris. The plaster model for this statue of the young king Henry IV of France was presented at Paris Salon in 1822, and was the artist's first example of troubadour art. The original cast in silver by Charles-Nicolas Odiot resides today in the Louvre. The work was cast in bronze by Barbedienne in various sizes, and later in the century was also cast by Susse Freres of Paris. The piece depicts a charming young prince William, aged roughly ten years, and is an important example of propaganda under the Restoration when the Bourbons exploited their glorious past to enhance their public image. Bosio was a favorite of the court under three regimes, including Napoleon I, Louis XVIII and Charles X when he achieved the title of baron. This item resides with our client in northern New Jersey and may be seen in person by appointment.

Additional images forwarded upon request.

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