Extraordinary French burnished bronze sculpture featuring a Gallic warrior.
Exhibiting a remarkable level of detail, this brown burnished bronze sculpture signed by Picault is an impressive study in anatomy and expression. It stands as an allegory for strength and bravery.

This extraordinary French burnished bronze sculpture featuring a Gallic warrior victorious over the Roman legion was crafted in late 19th Century (1890 ca) by famed French sculptor Emile-Louis Picault, one of the most celebrated sculptors of the 19th century.

Looking at this stunning finely casted and chiselled statuette representing a figure of a warrior, we can appreciate the perfectly modeled anatomical features, incredible details and a pleasant yet realistic sense of motion. The gallic warrior, dressed only with a tight drape around his waist, seems to proceed victorious, proudly looking forward whilst holding a sword in one hand and a shield in the other. He wears a winged helmet, typical of Nordic warriors and a reference to the mythology of ancient Greece and ancient Rome associated with the god Hermes or Mercury.

The statue rests on a rectangular socle signed by E.Picault where some classic elements are modeled such as shields, laurel leaves and coats of arms, as symbolic references to the victory of the Gallic warriors over Rome, confirmed by the writing “Pro Jure” on the column Latin for "For Rights".

Over the centuries this figure has been then elected as a symbol of the spirit of the pride of the French Nation and this evocative image became an important symbol for France.
This bronze sculpture is extremely life-like masterfully captures the drama of the moment with a remarkable sense of romantic realism.
Emotion, beauty and bravery are all made manifest in each incredible detail, embodying the allegorical and patriotic subjects for which Picault is renowned.
Picault Emile Louis (1833-1915) was an important French sculptor and pupil of Louis Royer, active at the turn of the century - between the 19th and 20th centuries . His works depict mostly historical, mythological and symbolist subjects. He exhibited regularly at the Paris Salon from 1863 to 1909.
The sculpture is in extremely good condition due to age and use and shows a wonderful dark brown original patina.

Measures: H. 47, W. 27, base 19 x 16 cm.