PATINA BRONZE, "PRO MERITO", SIGNED EMILE-LOUIS PICAULT

A patinated bronze allegorical figure of a man holding a quill in his right hand, with a plaque beside him engraved with a geometric design. The draped man rests on a base at the foot of which lie oak and laurel branches, and a plaque engraved with "PRO MERITO" (for merit). The figure is signed by Emile-Louis Picault at the base. Emile Louis Picault (1833-1915) was a French sculptor and medalist, a student of the painter Royer. From 1863 onwards, he exhibited regularly at the Salon, showing numerous allegorical, patriotic, and mythological subjects. His works are often accompanied by Latin or French maxims. 19th century, circa 1890. Dimensions: W: 22cm, D: 22cm, H: 46cm. Some wear to the patina.