In Colour: Polychrome Sculpture in France 1850-1910

Relatively unknown, 19th century polychrome sculpture is one of the key facets of the history of sculpture. Until the beginning of this century, the only colours permitted in statuary were the white of marble and the monochrome patina of bronzes. But the discovery of the use of polychromy in ancient architecture and sculpture changed people’s perspective, as well as generating heated debate.

Pioneering sculptors like Charles Cordier began to specialize in this technique from the 1850s. Once the controversy had died down, color began to establish its legitimacy of the Second Empire thanks to its decorative character, prevailing under the influence of Symbolism and Art Nouveau as of the 1880s.

The exhibition runs from 6/12-9/9/18 at the Musée d'Orsay, 62 Rue de Lille, Paris, France.

To learn more click here.

For more exhibitions, visit the ARC Calendar.