French 19th Century Bronze Study of a Victorious Roman Soldier by Emile Picault

This fine late 19th century French bronze study portrays a victorious Roman soldier boldly standing bare chested with a cloak tied over his shoulders wearing an ornate helmet and holding an impressive sword which he has resting on his opponent's shield which bears the inscription in Latin Honor Petria ( honour your father). This fine bronze has a dark green patination and is in good condition. On the front of the rectangular base, there is an engraved plaque which is inscribed Le Devoir which translates in English to (the obligation duty bound) below is the artist's name E Picault the base also has the artist's signature on the top and the reverse the circular French foundry mark Vrai bronze garanti Paris. Emile Louis Picault, French 1833 – 1915.