Antiquary & Expert CNES

This small cup in gilt bronze and repoussé copper perfectly illustrates the 19th century's taste for revisited Antiquity .
Its central medallion depicts two nude male figures, rendered in high relief, carrying a hunting trophy — a composition directly inspired by ancient bas-reliefs and Greco-Roman aesthetics.

The work is signed “LEVILLAIN” , a 19th-century French sculptor and medalist, known for his neo-classical compositions, and was produced by F. Barbedienne , one of the most prestigious Parisian art foundries.

The combination of copper for the central relief and gilt bronze for the rim gives the piece a warm, decorative presence while highlighting the delicacy of the modeling. This type of object was intended for a cultivated clientele, art lovers, and naturally found its place in a cabinet of curiosities, a library, or a study .

A fine example of Parisian artistic production at the end of the 19th century , at the crossroads of art, publishing and decorative objects.

The golden patina is only present on the back of the cup.