Raoul Larche
(Saint-André-de-Cubzak 1860-1912 Paris)

Loïe Fuller (lamp)

Ca. 1900
Bronze, gilt patina
Signed 'Raoul Larche', numbered '8D' and with the 'Siot-Paris' foundry mark
Lifetime cast, ca. 1910
Height 33cm

After rather traditional beginnings, Raoul Larche became the quintessential Art Nouveau sculptor through the evocative power of one of his many works: the 1901 lamp inspired by the dancer Loïe Fuller (seven different models). The famous American dancer Loïe Fuller, who was a common subject for Larche and many other Art Nouveau artists, was celebrated as the embodiment of the new concept promoted in Art Nouveau. She danced hidden in swirling diaphanous painted silk gauze, epitomizing the exotic sensuous woman of Art Nouveau subject matter. Fuller’s use of electric stage lighting and mirrors had a grand effect on the artist of the time.

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