BRONZE TRAY BY ÉMILE VERNIER (1852-1927), ART NOUVEAU PERIOD

A patinated bronze oval tray decorated in repoussé and chased bas-relief. It depicts a nude woman reclining among reeds at the water's edge. In the background, a young putto appears and gazes at her. This scene, imbued with sensuality, where plant and human forms intertwine, is a typical example of Art Nouveau. Treated in a distinctly contemporary style, the subject and the arrangement of the figures recall one of the most famous allegories in art history, "Venus and Cupid," and in particular Titian's 16th-century interpretations (Prado Museum, Madrid, etc.). Our tray is signed in relief on the rim: "E. VERNIER." Émile Séraphin Vernier (1852-1927) was a French sculptor, chaser, plaque maker, and medal engraver. He made his debut at the Salon of the Academy of Fine Arts in 1876 and received an honorable mention in 1886. He subsequently won various awards, notably a bronze medal at the 1900 Universal Exposition. Vernier served as president of the Society of Decorative Artists from 1905 to 1910. In 1903, he was made a Knight, and then in 1911, an Officer of the National Order of the Legion of Honor. The Musée d'Orsay owns several bronze, copper, and gilt silver plaques by this artist.