“Dalou” the signature whispers from the base of L’homme la femme et l’enfant. This sculpture before us captures a timeless tableau. It is a man a woman and a child.
L’homme la femme et l’enfant is not just a sculpture. It is a story frozen in time. The artist Aimé-Jules Dalou created this painted plaster masterpiece. Dalou was a French artist born in 1838 and died in 1902.
Notice the dimensions. Without the base, L’homme la femme et l’enfant measures 8 1/4 x 7 x 5 inches. The base itself is 2 x 10 x 5 inches. The sculpture is currently not on view. It belongs to the 19th century.
Consider the material painted plaster. It lends a certain softness to the figures. The choice of plaster allows for intricate details bringing the figures to life.
L’homme la femme et l’enfant is more than art. It is a moment of familial connection. It is Dalou’s vision of humanity. The figures intertwine showing love and protection. The child represents innocence and the future. The man and woman embody strength and nurture.
Pause for a moment. Envision Dalou shaping this scene. Feel the texture of the plaster under his hands. See the figures emerge from his imagination.
The sculpture is currently owned by Vassar College. It was acquired through the Suzette Morton Davidson Fund.
The sculpture L’homme la femme et l’enfant invites reflection. What does family mean to you? What stories do you see in these figures? It is a reminder of our shared humanity. It is a celebration of love and life. It is a testament to Dalou’s artistic vision.
Around 1990 a non-figurative group in black granite and metal was created by Thierry Le Proust. It is also called L’homme la femme l’enfant. This artwork is located in Issy-les-Moulineaux. This sculpture is located on rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau.