Music
ca. 1869
Medium
Terracotta
Dimensions
Diameter: 12 5/8 in. (32.1 cm)
Classification
Sculpture
Culture
French
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Purchase, Mrs. Sid R. Bass Gift, in honor of Mrs. Charles Wrightsman, and Rogers Fund, 2001
Accession Number
2001.4
Tags
Art Historical Context
Henri-Michel-Antoine Chapu *Music* (ca. 1869) is a delicate terracotta medallion that captures the poetic essence of musical harmony. Measuring just 12⅝ inches in diameter, intimate sculpture exemplifies the French artist’s mastery of the medium. Terracotta, a fired clay prized for its warm, earthy tones and malleability, was a favored material for sculptors like Chapu during the Second era. It allowed for detailed modeling and served as an ideal sketch-like study before committing to grander marble or bronze works. Depicting the allegorical theme of Music—evoked through violins and flowing m...