19th-Century French Articulated Artist’s Lay Figure in Walnut

A rare 19th-century articulated lay figure, hand-carved in walnut and originating from France. Fully jointed and anatomically constructed, the figure features articulated limbs and individually carved fingers, allowing for a wide range of poses. These models were traditionally used in artists' studios as references for proportion, anatomy, and composition. This exact figure was previously included in Christie’s The Collector: English & European 18th & 19th Century Furniture, Ceramics, Silver & Works of Art sale (London, 2019, Lot 148), where it was dated to circa 1870–1890. It is closely associated with the workshop Maquette Française sur Armature Articulée, known for producing articulated studio figures for academic use in the late 19th century. The figure remains in very good condition for its age, with functional joints and surface wear consistent with historic studio use. Origin: France Period/Style: Late 19th Century / Academic Artist’s Studio Date: Circa 1870–1890 Material: Walnut Dimensions: 51cm height × 14.5cm width × 7cm depth

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