Important 19th-century bronze edition, depicting a young girl reading, holding a basket on her arm, a work by the famous French sculptor Mathurin MOREAU (1822–1912), a major figure in French academic and naturalist sculpture. The sculpture is signed “Moreau Mᵗʰ” on the terrace and bears the mention “Hors concours,” an honorary distinction reserved for artists officially recognized at the Salon des Beaux-Arts, allowing them to exhibit without jury. This mention attests to the high institutional status of the artist at the time of the edition. The model is distinguished by its great quality: subtle treatment of the drapery animated by movement, graceful attitude, gentle and focused expression on the face, finely sculpted bare feet. The warm brown patina, nuanced, deep, and homogeneous, remarkably enhances the volumes and details. With its significant dimensions and high weight, this bronze offers a strong decorative presence, characteristic of fine edition castings from the late 19th century. Overall very good condition. No restoration, no shock, no crack. Homogeneous old patina with slight natural nuances. Max dimensions: Height 55.5 x 19.5 cm / Base diameter 16.6 cm Weight: 12,853 grams Ultra-secure shipping worldwide Pickup of orders possible by appointment, 7 rue Notre-Dame 18000 Bourges. Possibility of grouping within the same package: please contact me beforehand so I can calculate your optimized transport costs. Authenticity: Original Type: Sculpture Period: 19th century and before Country of origin: France Material: Bronze Features: Signed Dimension (cm): From 51 to 70 Theme: Character