(French, 1849–1888) The Orchardist Silver-plated bronze, numbered 1763568 and marked Christofle Cie Mounted on griotte marble Total height: 17½ in. (bronze: 12½ in.)
Léon Eugène Longépied was a 19th-century French sculptor known for his sensitive depictions of rural life. This figure of a laborer mid-task captures the dignity and quiet resolve of France’s peasantry. Cast by the renowned Christofle foundry, the piece reflects both artistic craftsmanship and the industrial elegance of silver-plated bronze. Longépied’s early death at age 39 cut short a promising career dedicated to realism and humanism.
