Classical Grand Tour French Bronze Group – “Call of the Triton Conch”
Sea Putti, After Clodion (c.1820) – In the Manner of Gonon Frčres, Paris
Description
A magnificent early 19th-century French bronze depicting three sea putti—one representing a young Triton sounding a conch shell while the others move and play with lively energy.
Cast entirely in solid patinated bronze, including its rare fully integrated bronze base, this sculpture is a distinguished work of the Grand Tour era, created in the manner of the celebrated Parisian foundry Gonon Frčres.
Modelled in the spirit of Clodion (Claude Michel), the group displays the fluid Rococo lines, expressive charm, and swirling movement that made his school renowned.
The Triton child lifts the conch to call the sea, while the two attendant putti twist and embrace with joyful animation. The bronze retains its original warm patina, with fine ciselure (hand-chasing) throughout the hair, anatomy, and drapery.
Dimensions
...Height: 52.5 cm
Width: 41.5 cm
Depth: 39.5 cm
Widest span: 48 cm
Weight: approx. 35 kg
A substantial and beautifully balanced bronze with commanding presence.
Foundry Notes — In the Manner of Gonon Frčres, Paris
This sculpture exhibits casting characteristics, surface refinement, patina tone, and alloy density that align closely with works produced by the renowned atelier Gonon Frčres, active c.1800–1830.
Their foundry was admired for its exceptionally heavy, thick-walled castings, meticulous surface finishing, and the rare practice of casting sculpture and base as a single unified bronze structure.
The piece is unsigned and bears no visible foundry stamp—entirely typical for early 19th-century French bronzes. Any original mark may have worn away over two centuries, or it may simply never have been applied, as many early Restoration works were released unmarked.
The overall craftsmanship strongly supports a stylistic and technical association with Gonon Frčres.
Rare Early Casting Method
Produced using an advanced early 19th-century process, this sculpture features a thick-walled bronze casting with a single-piece integrated base, achieved through a hybrid of lost-wax casting (for the figures) and sand casting (for the heavy base).
These elements were unified through expert hand-chasing, resulting in exceptional durability, weight, and sculptural depth.
Casting of this quality became increasingly rare after the 1830s.
About Clodion (Claude Michel, 1738–1814)
Clodion was one of France’s most celebrated sculptors, admired for his terracottas of putti, nymphs, satyrs, and Bacchic dancers.
Although this work dates from around 1820—slightly after his lifetime—it clearly belongs to the École de Clodion, continuing his legacy of elegance, fluidity, and joyful classical spirit.
Parisian founders frequently created bronzes “After Clodion” to satisfy collectors’ admiration for his style.
Mythological Context
The subject depicts Triton, son of Poseidon, sounding his conch shell to command the waves.
Rendered here as playful sea putti, the composition captures both poetry and vitality—a maritime theme much admired by early 19th-century collectors.
Date
France, circa 1820
Early Restoration period
Condition Report
Good original condition with a rich, untouched antique patina and natural verdigris characteristic of age.
The sculpture is unsigned and bears no foundry stamp—typical of early Parisian bronzes in this period.
There are no structural issues, and the surface retains its authentic finish.
Some minor wear and small losses to the fabric lining beneath, consistent with age.
Why You’ll Love It
Authentic French bronze, circa 1820 — a true early 19th-century work
Dynamic mythological subject — Triton’s call captured with elegance and vitality
In the manner of Gonon Frčres, a prestigious Parisian foundry
Influence of Clodion — Rococo grace tran
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Internal Reference: 750
Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA1179487
Dateline of this antique is Georgian
Height is 52.5cm (20.7inches)Width is 41.5cm (16.3inches)Depth is 39.5cm (15.6inches)
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