19th Century French Patinated Bronze Sculpture “La Halte” Signed L. Mennessier

Description

This beautifully detailed bronze figure was sculpted in France, circa 1850. The figural sculpture shows a French soldier in uniform … more This beautifully detailed bronze figure was sculpted in France, circa 1850. The figural sculpture shows a French soldier in uniform lighting a pipe with his gun by his side, a belt with bayonet and gun powder pouch. The piece called "La Halte" (the stop), is signed on the conforming base by the artist L. Mennessier. This piece is in excellent condition with rich patinated finish.
Louis Charles Justin Mennessier was born on 8 August 1815 in Metz. He attended the military school at Saint-Cyr in Brittany, and became a career soldier sculptor in his spare time. Mennessier is believed to have perished at the battlefield in Magenta in 1859.
Some of his work can be found in the Musée Condé, Chantilly.
Measures: 5.5" W x 5.5" D x 16" H. less