Bronze sculpture by French artist James Pradier (1790-1852) depicts the Arcadian heroine Atalanta, a huntress who was allied with the goddess Artemis. From mythology, Atalanta would agree to marry the suitor that could outrun her. If they were to fail, however, they would be put to death. Praidier’s historical reputation as a most competent artist is exhibited on full display with this gorgeous neoclassical sculpture. This figure of Atalanta kneels against a base denoting Pradier’s signature and the Susse Foundry seal, offering a beautiful rendition of Pradier’s original marble masterpiece.
About the Artist:
Born Jean Jacques Pradier in the Republic of Geneva in 1790, James Pradier moved to Paris in 1807 for work before studying at the École des Beaux-Arts beginning in 1808. He won a Prix de Rome that enabled him to study in Rome from 1814 to 1818 at the Villa Medici and made his debut at the Salon in 1819, quickly acquiring a reputation as a talented artist. In 1827, he became a member of the Académie des beaux-arts and a professor at the École des Beaux-Arts. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Pradier oversaw the finish of his sculptures himself and his workshop served as a meeting place for the artists of Paris. Pradier continued to work until his death in 1852, after which the contents of his studio were purchased by the city museum of Geneva.
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