L’Infini (“The Infinite”) — Pierre-Charles Lenoir (Circa 1920–1922)
Overview
Presented as a true museum-grade work of art, this magnificent French bronze art plaquette is entitled “L’Infini” (The Infinite). Created circa 1920–1922 by the celebrated French sculptor and medallist Pierre-Charles Lenoir (1879–1953), this piece captures the delicate stylistic transition between the flowing organic lines of Art Nouveau and the sleek geometric restraint of early Art Deco.
Exquisitely cast in rich bronze, this plaque moves far beyond the traditional circular medal, offering a complete, emotionally resonant pictorial narrative that explores themes of devotion, time, and the boundless expanse of eternity.
The Composition & Meaning
The wonderfully atmospheric design portrays a couple standing together on a rugged rocky shoreline, gazing outward across a seemingly endless sea. Rather than engaging the viewer directly, the figures share a silent, shared perspective toward the distant horizon, drawing the observer quietly into the intimate scene.
The vast, open ocean serves as a powerful metaphor for time and mystery, dwarfing the human figures to create a composition that is as deeply philosophical as it is romantic.
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Themes: Love, companionship, shared destiny, eternity, and the infinite.
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The Figures: An intimate depiction of two lives facing the future together.
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The Landscape: Masterfully utilizing negative space, the open sea and endless horizon evoke a breathtaking sense of scale and timelessness.
About the Artist: Pierre-Charles Lenoir (1879–1953)
Active during the first half of the 20th century, Pierre-Charles Lenoir was a master of French medallic art and sculpture whose career bridged the turbulent decades surrounding the First World War. Renowned for his accomplished figure modeling and sophisticated allegorical compositions, Lenoir’s works are celebrated by institutions and discerning collectors worldwide for their profound emotional depth and technical mastery.
Specifications & Details
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Title: L’Infini (The Infinite)
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Artist: Pierre-Charles Lenoir (1879–1953)
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Origin: France
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Date: Circa 1920–1922
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Period: Early Interwar / Art Nouveau to Early Art Deco Transition
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Material: Fine Bronze
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Type: Art Plaque / Plaquette / Medallic Sculpture
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Signature: Signed "Lenoir" (as photographed)
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Approximate Dimensions: 50 x 60 mm (please refer to photographs for exact measurements of this specific example)
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Approximate Weight: 75–83g (please refer to photographs for exact weight)
Condition & Authenticity Note
This piece displays a rich, historically authentic patination reflective of its age and provenance. Please carefully review all accompanying photographs, which detail the exact dimensions, weight, edge markings, and signature of this specific museum-quality example.
