Art Nouveau Bronze Bust entitled "Esmerelda” by Emmanuel Villanis, French, Circa 1890

A striking Art Nouveau bronze bust of a young female entitled ‘Esmerelda’ by Emmanuel Villanis.   She has long flowing locks and wears a turban, with a look of contemplation, exquisite detail with a rich brown patina.

Titled ‘Esmerelda’, Signed by E. Villanis, and stamped with unique number, also with Societe des Bronzes foundry seal.

Esmeralda, born Agnès, is a fictional character in Victor Hugo's 1831 novel The Hunchback of Notre-Dame. She is a French Roma girl. She constantly attracts men with her seductive dances.

Emmanuel Villanis (12 December 1858 - 28 August 1914) was a French sculptor. He was born in Lille, France, and died in Paris.

He studied at the Accademia Albertina in Turin, where one of his teachers was Odoardo Tabacchi. In 1885, Villanis lived in Paris and became one of the most productive sculptors towards the end of the 19th century. His female bronze busts, cast by the Society de Bronze de Paris, were exported all over the world from Paris, particularly to the United States. Today his sculptures can be found regularly at auctions

French, Circa 1890

Condition report: Excellent Condition

Dimensions:   20.5 Cms Width x 17 Cms Depth x 40 Cms High