Two Fates by Ferdinand Barbedienne

Ferdinand Barbedienne
1810-1892 | French

Two Fates

Signed “Lequesne” and foundry marked “F. Barbedienne Fondeur”
Patinated bronze with wood plinth

Inspired by one of the most celebrated sculptural groups of classical antiquity, this exceptional patinated bronze by Ferdinand Barbedienne presents Two Fates, after the celebrated model by Eugène-Louis Lequesne. Derived from the reclining female figures from the Parthenon’s East Pediment, the work combines the graceful beauty of ancient Greek sculpture with the exceptional craftsmanship of Ferdinand Barbedienne’s renowned Paris foundry. Its monumental scale, graceful composition and rich patina make it a striking example of the 19th-century revival of classical art.

Lequesne completed the fragmentary ancient composition by restoring the figures' missing heads and limbs, presenting them as Clotho and Atropos, two of the three Fates responsible for weaving the destinies of mortals. The original figures have also been interpreted by some scholars as the goddesses Dione and Aphrodite. Here, the two women recline in relaxed, natural poses, their bodies enveloped in deeply folded classical drapery. The warm patina emphasizes the fine modeling of their garments and creates a sense of depth across the bronze, while the veneered wood plinth provides an elegant architectural base.

Lequesne was among the leading French sculptors of the 19th century. A student of James Pradier and winner of the prestigious Prix de Rome, he received the Grand Prize for Sculpture at the 1855 Exposition Universelle and was later awarded the Légion d’honneur. His important public commissions include sculptures for the Palais Garnier in Paris. Ferdinand Barbedienne founded one of France’s most distinguished bronze foundries, celebrated for its finely cast versions of classical and Renaissance masterpieces. Bringing together Lequesne’s artistic vision and Barbedienne’s technical skill, Two Fates captures both the beauty of antiquity and the remarkable quality of French bronze casting.

Late 19th century

On base: 55" high x 63 1/2" wide x 14" deep