“Femme de Menage” aka “La Bonne”, a very rare and important large cast figural bronze sculpture attained via lost wax process, table in patinated and engraved bronze and pewter with enamel cloisonne, by Philip and Kelvin LaVerne, edition of 3, American, 1960s (signed twice on bronze and also retains the original gallery label). The base is on recessed castors and is made of patinated bronze which was buried in special soil to attain its unique characteristics. This incredible sculpture was made as a tribute to the housekeeper; someone often in the background who makes life happier and easier for everyone around them. This work represents their love of humanity in general. The LaVernes did several works centered on love and family. The difficulty in casting such a large figure in bronze should not be understated. And the table top is simply a stunning work of art. The table top could support a vase or other decorative item if so desired. This work resided in the Seymour Gallery section of the LaVerne Gallery, where they featured their best artworks.
Reference:
ALCHEMY: THE ART OF PHILIP AND KELVIN LAVERNE written by Evan Lobel with Kelvin LaVerne, published by Pointed Leaf Press in 2024, this sculpture is discussed in the introduction and shown on page 156 in the section titled The Cast Series Under the work on the same page is an in-depth discussion of it by Kelvin LaVerne. It is also shown in the photograph of the Seymour Gallery from the 1970s on pages 2-3 where the LaVernes showcased their finest works.
Provenance:
From the Collection of Kelvin LaVerne
Overall Dimensions:
W: 34 inches
D: 44 inches
H: 59 inches
Dimensions Of Base:
W: 32 inches
D: 34 inches
H: 4 inches
Dimensions Of Table:
W: 30 inches
D: 31 inches
H: 30 inches
Condition: Excellent
$95,000
Ref: sculpture151
