Bidspirit auction | Juan Clara Ayats – “Girl

Juan Clara Ayats – “Girl in a High Chair”, Bronze Sculpture, Signed - Juan Clara Ayats. Girl in a High ChairSpain, first half of the 20th century.Bronze, cast, chased and patinated. Height: 22 cm.Signed Juan Clara and numbered on the reverse of the chair.A finely observed cabinet bronze of striking anecdotal charm, this sculpture captures a small child at the instant when passive repose turns into restless movement. The sculptor treats the figure with notable sensitivity: the tousled hair, rounded cheeks, soft limbs, and loose folds of the dress are rendered with a vivid naturalism that stops short of sentimentality. This work accords closely with the established oeuvre of Juan Clara Ayats, a Spanish sculptor generally listed as active between 1875 and 1958 and particularly associated with patinated bronze figures of children. Born in Villafranca del Panadés, Clara's artistic journey began at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Carlos in Valencia. He later moved to Paris, where he flourished as an artist, gaining recognition for his innovative and emotive sculptures. Clara's works often explored human emotions and the female form, showcasing a blend of classical and modern influences. His notable pieces include ”La Bacante” and ”Eve,” reflecting a mastery of expressive details and refined craftsmanship. Juan Clara's legacy endures through his impact on Spanish sculpture, leaving a lasting