Carrara marble sculpture of a female figure by Mathurin Moreau

Executed in fine carrara marble, this exceptional marble sculpture of a young female figure was made and signed by Mathurin Moreau. It likely depicts Ruth, the Biblical figure, although there may be elements of a Ceres, Spring (Printemps) or other harvest-deity influence to the depiction, and shows her standing, resting on a small plinth, and holding wheat sheafs in her right hand and in a sash across her waist.

The sensitively, diligently, and meticulously carved marble, brough to a high level of polish, is mounted upon a gilt-bronze emblazzoned red-marble base, and stands just under a metre tall. Half life-size, 'Ruth,' is depicted as a beautiful young maiden, calm, composed, and in the Academic style for which Moreau became highly celebrated. An exceptional sculpture, and probably a unique work, this rare marble by Moreau stands out among in oeuvre, demonstrating his skill and quality as a sculptor, active in late 19th century France.