Elegant & Refined French Art Nouveau & Belle Epoque Period Chryselephantine Sculpture “Marguerite” by Dominique Alonzo ( active c. 1880-1920), Rare & Historically Noteworthy Female Sculptor Using Gilt Bronze, Ivory & White Onyx

An elegant and refined late 19th/early 20th Century Art Nouveau sculpture “Marguerite” by French artist Dominique Alonzo (active c. 1881–1920).

An ancient technique (from Egyptian & Greek works), Chryselephantine sculpture is a combination of gold drapery and ivory flesh, here seen in the gilt cast bronze and carved ivory figural details. The young Marguerite, a medieval/ pre-Raphaelite girl, holds a jewellery casket whilst seated upon a carved onyx balcony, terminating in a gilt bronze trim that is numbered. The subject “Marguerite” refers to the tragic heroine from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s tragedy Faust and, more specifically, the popular 19th-century opera Faust by Charles Gounod. Gracefully seated in quiet contemplation, holding a small casket, the figure is sensitively modelled, with flowing drapery and a naturalistic pose characteristic of the Belle Époque aesthetic. The lovely “fall of her braid” at the back of her dress creates a sculpture to be viewed “in the round”.  The contrast between the luminous ivory face and hands and the warm gilt bronze of her hair and dress creates a striking interplay of materials, further elevated by the architectural white onyx plinth, whose translucent tones add depth and decorative presence.

Dominique Alonzo was active in Paris during a period when sculpture was largely dominated by male artists. As one of the comparatively few recognized female sculptors working in bronze at the turn of the 20th century, her presence within the French decorative arts movement is particularly noteworthy. She specialized in finely cast mixed-media figures combining bronze, ivory, and fine stone bases like onyx or marble, produced in collaboration with established Parisian foundries for a discerning domestic and international clientele.

Her works embody the refinement, craftsmanship, and romantic sensibility of the Art Nouveau period and remain highly desirable among collectors of French Belle Époque sculpture. Very good overall condition consistent with age, making it an exceptional and luxurious statement piece for both traditional and transitional interiors.

Dimensions: height 15.5″ x width 9″ x depth 7″