Important French Late 18th Century Rococo Limestone Garden Cupid - 38½"

This carved limestone garden sculpture represents a youthful Cupid and is French, dating to the late 18th century. The figure stands in a graceful contrapposto pose, with a sash crossing the torso that was almost certainly intended to support a quiver. It is raised on a naturalistic rocky base, and the stone shows a soft grey coloration with areas of pale ochre, enriched by an authentic lichen patina that has developed over time. The sculpture is presented on a later turned wood plinth, which accompanies the piece. The condition reflects the passage of centuries and gives the work its evocative character. Both arms and both wings are now missing, the curls and drapery have softened with weathering, and there are scattered edge chips throughout. These timeworn qualities underscore the sculpture’s authenticity and enhance its poetic presence.

Putti and Cupids were highly popular in French garden sculpture during the 18th and 19th centuries, blending classical references with the playful refinement of the Louis XV style. Limestone was valued for its ability to take fine detail and for the noble patina it acquires outdoors.

Today, this figure of Cupid would make a striking addition to a courtyard, parterre, or fountain setting, or it may be displayed indoors on its plinth, where its rustic surface and elegant form bring timeless grace to both traditional and contemporary interiors.