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LOT 033

AUTO CAS OC QMG RCA SCA
1923 - 2002
Canadian

Famine chiendent
bronze sculpture with patina, 1989
signed, editioned 3/8 and inscribed "Fonderia Art. F.lli Bonvicini Sommacampagna"
12 1/4 x 8 x 7 in, 31.1 x 20.3 x 17.8 cm

Estimate: $25,000 - $35,000 CAD

Sold for: $49,250

Preview at: Heffel Toronto – 13 Hazelton Ave

PROVENANCE
Galerie Lelong, Paris
Galerie d'art Michel Bigué, Saint-Sauveur-des-Monts
Private Collection, Montreal

LITERATURE
Yseult Riopelle and Gilles Daigneault, Riopelle - Mémoires d'ateliers, 2010, reproduced page 77, listed page 130
Yseult Riopelle, Jean Paul Riopelle Catalogue Raisonné, Volume 4, 1966 - 1971, 2014, reproduced page 498, catalogue #1970.10SC.1970


In the second half of the 1960s, Jean Paul Riopelle experienced a creative outburst that radically influenced his painted and printed works, and pushed him to integrate sculpture into his artistic practice. Although he focused greatly on his three-dimensional works during that specific period, his interest originated in his childhood, when he made sculptures out of snow. While other children were busy making traditional snowmen, Riopelle would create fantastical improvisations.

Between 1969 and 1972, Riopelle produced over 80 clay pieces. The majority of these were later executed in bronze, starting in 1970. Throughout his career, this ensemble of pieces followed him to his many studios, where he would place them in various arrangements like pieces on a chessboard. Not unlike his painted works, Riopelle’s sculptures have heavily textured finishes and irregular forms with creases and edges. The end result is organic, lively and deeply expressive.

Chiendent is the French common name for the invasive weed known as couch grass. The plant has edible roots that, once dried and powdered, were mixed with flour for the production of pains de famine (breads of famine). Riopelle often gave surrealistic titles to his works, with occasional references to the natural world.

The terra cotta model for this sculpture was executed in 1970, and this bronze was cast in 1989.


Estimate: $25,000 - $35,000 CAD

All prices are in Canadian Dollars


Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information posted, errors and omissions may occur. All bids are subject to our Terms and Conditions of Business. Bidders must ensure they have satisfied themselves with the condition of the Lot prior to bidding. Condition reports are available upon request.