Art Nouveau gilt bronze sculptural table lamp by Larche

This expertly cast sculptural table lamp is titled 'Le Coup de Vent', and, crafted entirely in gilt bronze, depicts a young girl sheltering from a fierce gale under a tree. The girl is represented clutching her arms to her chest with a fearful expression as the branches of the tree above her head bow over under the weight of the wind. The work exudes a forceful energy, and the impact of the storm and wind are truly palpable. However, this piece is more than just a beautiful sculpture: there is a fixture for a light bulb set within the branches of the tree, which also serve as a lamp shade. The lamp is set upon a naturalistic base which also contains a a secret: a hidden inkwell of blue glass can be found underneath the hinged mound. 

The base of the sculptural table lamp is signed 'Raoul Larche' for the designer, and bears the foundry stamp of Siot-Decauville, Paris, where the piece was founded. This edition is numbered 'P81'. 

Francois-Raoul Larche (French, 1860-1912) was a celebrated sculptor of the Art Nouveau period, and was well-known and celebrated for his sculptures of nude women. His body of oeuvre also includes depictions of Christ, but linking them all are distinctively billowing, flowing forms and figures that beautifully illustrate natural movement and emotion.