Turn-of-the-Century Antique Cast Metal Statue – Maiden Holding Fowl & Birds – 19” Spelter Figurine

This elegant turn-of-the-century classical statue depicts a graceful young maiden holding wild fowl and songbirds. Cast in spelter (white metal) with fine hand-finished detail, this figurine captures the Art Nouveau and late Victorian fascination with allegorical pastoral subjects and romantic nature motifs.

• Sculptural Details: The figure is styled in flowing classical drapery, holding a bird delicately in her hands with additional fowl resting at her side/apron. Features detailed texturing in the feathers, drapery folds, and hair.

• Finish & Base: Finished in an original dark bronzed/verdigris surface patina with warm highlights showing through on high-contact areas. Stands atop an integrated cast decorative base.

• Condition: Good antique condition overall. Note on Condition: Features a slight stress crack along the edge of the cast base and a minor hairline crack at the ankle area; however, the structure remains firm, fully intact, and stands strong without wobble.

History

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries (circa 1890–1910), European foundries—particularly in France and Germany—produced decorative spelter sculptures depicting allegorical figures, mythological scenes, and pastoral maidens. Often referred to as regule, spelter allowed sculptors to achieve intricate, fluid detail comparable to solid bronze at a more accessible price point for fine Victorian and Edwardian homes.

Statues depicting maidens with birds or harvest elements were popular symbols of innocence, nature, and abundance. These 19-inch figures were commonly displayed on mantlepieces, parlor tables, or atop grand grandfather clocks as central decorative statements.

Dimensions

• Height: 19.0 inches

• Base Diameter: ~5.5 – 6.5 inches

• Width (Elbow to Elbow / Max Span): ~6.0 – 7.5 inches

• Total Weight: ~5.0 – 8.0 lbs