Paul Manship (American, 1885-1966). Sagittarius. Bronze with brown and gold patina. 18-1/2 x 19-1/2 inches (47.0 x 49.5 ...

Description

Paul Manship (American, 1885-1966)
Sagittarius
Bronze with brown and gold patina
18-1/2 x 19-1/2 inches (47.0 x 49.5 cm)
Inscribed to side: Manship
Stamped with Foundry mark: cire / A.Valsuani / perdue

PROVENANCE:
The artist;
By descent in the Manship family to the present owner.

Paul Manship was an American sculptor known for his refined Art Deco style and exceptional skill in bronze. Born in St. Paul, Minnesota, he studied at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston before continuing his education at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. His exposure to both classical art forms and modernist principles profoundly shaped his artistic approach. Manship's sculptures often explore themes of mythology, nature, and the human figure, marked by streamlined forms and a sense of dynamic movement. Among his most famous works is Prometheus (1934), the fountain at Rockefeller Center in New York, which exemplifies his talent for fusing classical motifs with contemporary aesthetics, securing his position as a key figure in American art.

Manship received many honors throughout his career, including the distinguished Rome Prize, which allowed him to immerse himself in the rich artistic traditions of Europe. His public commissions, such as the Paul J. Rainey Memorial Gateway (1934) at the Bronx Zoo and the Celestial Sphere (1939) at the United Nations Office in Geneva, played a crucial role in shaping the cultural landscape of the 20th century. His innovative techniques, particularly in lost-wax casting, and his narrative-driven sculptures have solidified his place as one of America's leading sculptors. Today, his works continue to be admired in both museums and public spaces, reflecting his unique artistic vision and the spirit of his era.

One exemplary work is Manship's Globe, a bronze sculpture created in 1949, celebrated for its graceful depiction of the Earth. The stylized globe, supported by an Atlas-like figure, showcases Manship's characteristic Art Deco style with its sleek lines and elegant forms. The figure, exuding strength and movement, highlights the interconnectedness of humanity and the planet. Globe reflects Manship's fascination with both natural and cosmic themes, capturing the unity and aspirations of the post-war period. The sculpture stands as a testament to his ability to blend classical ideals with modern aesthetics, inviting viewers to reflect on their place in the world.

In Globe, astrology plays a subtle but meaningful role, reflecting Manship's interest in the cosmos. The globe not only represents the Earth but also suggests a link to the heavens, with intricate details hinting at astrological symbols and celestial navigation. This integration reinforces the relationship between humanity and the universe, illustrating how ancient beliefs and modern ideas coexist in Manship's vision. The sculpture encourages contemplation of the connection between the terrestrial and the celestial, underlining the lasting influence of astrology on art and culture.

Manship's bronze depiction of Sagittarius, as documented in correspondence with family members to whom he gifted the piece, was originally designed as part of a 5-foot diameter celestial sphere and would fit the example at the United Nations in Switzerland. In astrology, the horse represents Sagittarius's free-spirited nature and boundless optimism. In Greek mythology, Sagittarius is often associated with Chiron, the centaur son of Chronos and Philyra, while in Babylonian mythology, dating to the 11th century BCE, Sagittarius is portrayed as a mounted archer. Below the centaur, Manship references Corona Australis, or the Southern Crown, a constellation located just south of Sagittarius. This sophisticated fusion of cultural symbols with the clean lines and energy of Art Deco imagery exemplifies Manship's work at its most iconic; this example is truly unique in its conception and impeccable in its execution.


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