
OCT 8 | 3:00 PM

Bring your auction to collectors worldwide!
Get listed now
All auctions / Sculptures / Naar Auguste Moreau (1834-1917) - Statue


Auguste Moreau (1834–1917) – Monumental & antique patinated bronze sculpture "Un Secret" (Two Putti) on a marble pedestal – France, about 1890–1910 Exceptionally refined and heavily antique French bronze sculpture depicting two whispering cherubs/putti, titled "Un Secret" (or "The Confidence"), designed by the famous French master sculptor Auguste Moreau (1834–1917). About the subject & Style This iconic design embodies the elegance of French Art Nouveau and late 19th-century Romantic sculpture. On a rocky ground sprinkled with flowers, two lovingly detailed little figures sit. One child leans over affectionately and whispers a secret into the ear of the other, who listens with a subtle smile. The anatomy, the graceful drapery folds of the garments, and the sparkling expressions on the faces testify to the mastery for which the Moreau family became world-renowned. Craftsmanship, Material & Authenticity This is a high-quality, solid bronze casting with a substantial mass of no less than 3.6 kg for a height of 22 cm. Authentic bronze casting: A scratch analysis on the untreated inner surface confirms the presence of high-quality, gold-yellow bronze beneath the dark surface layer (and thus not lighter zamak/régule). Traditional casting process: The rough, granular texture on the interior indicates that this sculpture was cast using the classical sand-casting method. Casting- and mounting numbers: On the inside of the central casting beam are original assembly numbers scratched into the foundry ("24"). These numbers were used around 1900 by the French bronze founder to ensure a precise fit between the cast bronze and its marble base. Signature: On the back of the rock base is the signature "Aug. Moreau" sharply cast in bronze. Patina: The statue has a warm, deep bronze patina. On the highest portions of the hair, light handling wear subtly reveals the authentic gold sheen of the bronze, underscoring the layering and age. Condition The sculpture is in a very beautiful, entirely original antique condition. The marble is intact with no edge damage, and the central mounting rod at the bottom secures the piece firmly to the pedestal. A rare, honest, heavy, and high-quality museum-worthy collectible that would be an eye-catching addition to a French classical living space and the "L’Art de Vivre" themed auction. Packaging & Shipping Professional packaging: Given the weight (3.6 kg) and the fragility of the marble, the sculpture is packed with the utmost care. It is wrapped several times in foam padding, thick bubble wrap, and secured in a sturdy double-wall cardboard box. Insured shipping: The package is sent by registered mail and 100% fully insured with a Track & Trace code. Specifications: Object: Sculpture / Sculptural work Artist: Auguste Moreau (1834–1917) Title of the work: Un Secret (also known as The Confidence of Les Deux Putti) Material: Patinated solid bronze on an oval polished black marble pedestal Style / Period: French Art Nouveau / late Louis XVI revival / Belle Époque (ca. 1890–1910) Country of origin: France Signature: Signed on the bronze rock base (Aug. Moreau) Condition: Excellent antique condition with original patina Dimensions: 22 cm high × 18 cm wide × 12 cm deep Weight: 3600 grams (3.6 kg)
Estimate:£127.23
To the auctionView all items fromCatawikiorSculptures
Estimate:
£127.23

OCT 8 | 3:00 PM

OCT 8 | 3:00 PM

Bring your auction to collectors worldwide!
Get listed now
£339.29
Mahmoud MOKHTAR (Egypte, 1891–1934) Au Bord du Nil / On The Banks of The Nile
07/09/2026

£24,701.56
Est: £17,135.22
A RARE HANDYSIDE CAST IRON 'SOSIBIOS' VASE AND COVER, 19TH CENTURY
06/24/2026

£2,200
Est: £800
OCT 17 | 10:00 PM