Art & Statues
Theophile Somme Large Art Deco Bronze Diana Huntress French
Theophile Somme: Large Art Deco Bronze Diana Huntress
This exquisite large Art Deco bronze sculpture by Theophile Somme, titled Diana Huntress, epitomizes the elegance and craftsmanship of early 20th-century French art. Mounted on a thick Portoro marble base, the piece boasts an exceptional patina and remarkable condition, signed by the artist and dated circa 1920. The sculpture combines the finesse of bronze and intricate details that highlight Somme's mastery.
Born in Nancy in 1871, Theophile François Somme (1871–1952) was a prominent figure in the French Art Deco movement. A frequent exhibitor at the Salon des Artistes Français in Paris, Somme achieved significant acclaim throughout his career. He was awarded a Gold Medal at the Salon in 1924, a Silver Medal in 1925, and the prestigious Gold Medal at the 1937 Paris Exposition Internationale. His works remain celebrated and can be viewed in esteemed institutions, including the Toulon Museum in France.
Art Deco Bronze Figure: ‘A L’Affut’
This rare and striking bronze figure, titled A L’Affut (On the Alert), is a testament to Somme's exceptional artistry. The piece portrays a semi-nude young Amazon kneeling with a poised bow, capturing the tension and elegance of the hunt. Expertly cast with meticulous hand-chased details, the sculpture is signed Th. Somme Salon des Beaux-Arts and bears the bronze stamp, attesting to its authenticity and quality.
A similar example is documented in Berman’s Bronzes (reference 1355), titled After the Shot, further underscoring the significance of this remarkable work.
