Model for a bronze mount (chariot scene) by Pierre-Philippe Thomire

Model for a bronze mount (chariot scene) c. 1808

sculpture

natural stone pattern

toned paper

muted colour palette

handmade artwork painting

tile art

earthy tone

coffee painting

underpainting

sculpture

france

brown colour palette

watercolor

This model for a bronze mount by Pierre-Philippe Thomire depicts a chariot scene with four figures and two horses. The composition, typical of neoclassical style, features a dynamic movement of the horses and figures in high relief. Thomire, renowned for his bronze mounts, created this model as a design for a decorative object, perhaps for a piece of furniture. The model is made of wax and set into a dark frame, providing a striking contrast to the warm tones of the figures and the background. The detailed rendering of the figures and horses showcases Thomire's mastery of the medium and his ability to capture movement and emotion.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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Trained as a sculptor by French masters Pajou and Houdin, Thomire became a master in his own right, specializing in ornamental bronze work. This Neoclassical chariot scene, which may have been inspired by the Parthenon Mables, is a wax model for a gilt bronze mount. When cast, the mount would have been applied to decorate a piece of case furniture. It is rare for such a wax model to survive, and even more so for it to be signed by the designer (lower right corner.)