Ernest Rancoulet(1842-1918), Allegory of Progress
, around 1890. Bronze-plated metal cast with cast terrain plinth mounted on a wooden base (6 cm high). 64.5 cm (total height) x 28 cm (width) x 18 cm (depth), weight 7.2 kg. The male genius holds a leaf with the inscription “Les écrits”, the female genius holds the inscription “L'enseignement anime la jeunesse aux nouvelles découvertes”. On the plinth is a scroll with the words “Le Genie du Progres”. Signed “Rancoulet” on the reverse.
- Patina age-spotted, somewhat rubbed in places, rear border ring with defect, otherwise in good condition for its age.
- The Driving Force of Inspiration -
The upward-pointing hand of the male genius refers to the inspiration reflected in the writings, which is made clear by the words "Les écrits" on the sheet he is holding. He himself seems to have lowered himself onto the hill in order to descend to the earth, while the female genius stands with one foot on the circle of the earth and the other on the "ground of facts". The lines she wrote proclaim that from the "writings" mentioned by her companion comes the teaching that inspires youth to new discoveries. These discoveries are also reflected in writings, which in turn inspire the next generation. This cyclical progression is the "genius of progress" that the sculpture group represents. The female genius points to the word "nouvelles" with her writing instrument and anticipates the future with a joyful smile.
