Overview
This is a romanticized historical statuette cast in spelter, a zinc-based alloy designed to mimic the appearance of costly bronze.
1Identify
Preliminary identification
Spelter Figure of a French 'Franc-Tireur' or Revolutionary Soldier, c. 1880
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Story
Following the Franco-Prussian War of 1870, France was swept by a wave of patriotic fervor that celebrated the 'Franc-Tireurs'—irregular partisan fighters who took up arms to defend their villages.
Maker / Origin
While this piece is unsigned, it originates from the prolific 'bronze d'art' workshops of Paris that flourished during the late 1800s.
Condition & Value
The piece has suffered a significant structural loss; the barrel of the rifle is broken off and missing. The value is heavily constrained by the missing rifle barrel and the wear to the patina.
Research
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