CA0783 Rare Pair of Bronze Busts of Beranger and his Muse Lisette

Rare pair of mid 19th Century patinated bronze busts of the famous French Republican Poet of the people and Chansonnier Pierre-Jean de Beranger (1780-1857) and his beautiful muse, Lisette. Hugely popular and influential he has been described as the most popular french poet and songwriter of all time. Under the patronage of Lucien Bonaparte he published his first volume of poetry in 1815 and began a lifelong association with the Bonaparte family. Goethe and others credit him with creating the myth of the Napoleonic golden age of French prestige and prowess. His love of freedom of speech, courtesy, generous disposition, and marked sympathy for the young, endeared him to the nation. His songs helped to bring about the 1830 revolution and he played a part in 1851 in placing Napoleon III on the throne of France. Mounted on block stepped black marble socles. Circa 1860. 

H 17.5cm x W 6.5cm x D 6.5cm