Félix Maurice Charpentier (French, 1858-1924),L'Improvisateurpatinated cast bronze, incised signature in the casting, along with Parisian foundry mark of Jollet et Cie to base side.13 5/8 x 6 3/4 x 5 1/4 in.Félix-Maurice Charpentier was a French figural sculptor who studied at the École des Beaux Arts, Paris with French Academic sculptor and professor Pierre-Jules Cavelier (1814-1896). He won several medals exhibiting at the Exposition Universelle and the Paris Salon. Examples of his oeuvre can be found in the collections of the Grand Palais in Paris and the Place des Quinconces in Bordeaux. Le Maison Colin was a prestigious Parisian foundry, working with many of the top Parisian bronziers of the era. Founded in Paris in 1843, it was located at 29 rue Sévigné., and exhibited in various World's Fairs, including the 1893 Chicago World's Fair and the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris were it was awarded gold medal. In 1906, The Maison Colin's changed its name to Jollet & Cie, however it also kept its original name adding the wording "Ancienne Maison Collin" on all their castings until 1911.Private Collection, Aiken, South CarolinaAdditional high-resolution photos are available at www.lelandlittle.com Condition Report Some rubbing to patina, otherwise good estate condition.