This bronze bust, titled Bohémienne, is a late 20th-century reproduction of the original work by Emmanuel Villanis. The piece features a brass plaque inscribed "Villanis" and has the title Bohémienne sculpted into the base, consistent with Villanis’ original compositions. Known for his Art Nouveau-style female busts, Villanis' works were widely reproduced in later years due to their enduring popularity.
The bust depicts a young woman with flowing hair adorned with a laurel wreath. Her draped garment, accented with circular medallions, leaves one shoulder exposed. The surface has a multi-tonal patina, with warm brown tones for the skin and red polychrome accents in the fabric. The base is asymmetrical, with the title integrated into the design, a signature feature of Villanis' works. The sculpture is mounted on a square marble plinth with an attached brass nameplate.
This reproduction reflects the continued demand for Villanis’ sculptures well into the 20th century. While original castings were produced by Parisian foundries in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, later editions like this one were made for the decorative art market. Villanis’ distinct style, characterized by expressive facial features and stylized drapery, remained influential long after his lifetime.
