Emmanuel VILLANIS (1858-1914) 'Walkyrie' - Bronze with double patina - Early 20th century
Emmanuel VILLANIS (1858-1914)
'Walkyrie' (large model)
Rare proof in bronze with double patina.
Old edition cast, signed 'E. Villanis'. Titled 'Walkyre' on the front of the base.
Stamp of the founder Société des Bronzes de Paris and numbering '9525' on the back.
France, circa 1910.
Very good condition.
Dimensions: Height 62.5 cm x Width 44 cm x Depth 22 cm
Note: The Valkyries are the best known of the warrior goddesses in Norse mythology. They have always been one of the great emblems of the Viking people, and one of the sacred symbols of Norse beliefs. Fearsome in war, powerful, proud and loyal, the Valkyries reflect the Viking civilization and have fueled many legends.
In Norse mythology, the most valiant warriors had the honor of being welcomed at Valhalla, the famous banquet of Odin. He therefore sent his most faithful Valkyries to the battlefield to decide which fighters would participate in the last battle, and therefore have the great honor of dying in battle, but also to protect the Viking warriors because they had the curious power of influence the course of a war in favor of one side or the other.
Taken from etimology, it is the one that decides which warriors will perish in battle!