signed, titled and inscribed “1912”, “Copyright Canada United States 1918 by Suzor-Coté”, “Roman Bronze Works Inc. N.Y.” and “No. 11”
16 × 16.25 × 9.25 in (40.6 × 41.3 × 23.5 cm)
Auction Estimate:$8,000 - $12,000
Sale date:May 20 - 28, 2014
Price Realized
$8,625
(including Buyer's Premium)
Provenance
Purchased at W. Scott & Sons, 1918.
By descent to the current Private Collection, Ontario.
Literature
Pierre L'Allier, “Suzor-Coté, L'oeuvre sculpté”, Musée du Québec, 1991, pages 48-49.
The faithful companion to “Le vieux pionnier canadien”, Pierre L'Allier describes “La compagne du vieux pionnier” as more discrete through her depiction than that of her partner, whose strong personality is imposed by the sculptor. Unlike her husband, “La compagne's” world is defined within the home, Suzor-Coté including clear detail in the quilted texture of the sitter's skirt (suggesting homespun clothing) and the grained design of the floor beneath her chair. Even at her advanced age, she continues to knit, Suzor-Coté showing his preoccupation with the gestures of “La compagne”, paying special attention to his representation of the hands of the old woman, which show clear signs of strength and arthritic wear.
L'Allier notes that “Le vieux pionnier canadien” and “La compagne du vieux pionnier” form a pair of inseparable figures, completing a cycle of existence, the husband and wife symbolizing the tenacity and perseverance of rural life.
This lot includes a photocopy of the original W. Scott & Sons invoice, the bronze purchased in 1918 and remaining in the purchaser's family until this offering.
