Exceptional 19th century French cast iron fountain by Antoine Durenne (1847-1911). This rare pan with pipe dancing on a conch shell bears the distinctive 1880's Parisian foundry stamp "A. Durenne Paris" on its base. Durenne acquired L.L. Ducel's Paris studio in 1888 and is listed at Rue Poissonieu 26 from 1896-1911.
Antoine Durenne sought new ways of expanding the cast iron industry. He adapted cast iron to meet the requirements for architectural decoration and produced stairs, balconies and balustrades, among other objects. He went on to exploit cast iron artistically by reproducing ancient vases and sculptures and by casting groups of animals designed by modern artists.
Unfortunately Durenne's molds were destroyed in the 1900's - making this piece a rare and exceptional find.This statue can be plumbed for a fountain. $66,000