Boy With Oar Appraisal

Bronze Sculpture of a Fisher Boy with Oar

This is a bronze sculpture depicting a young, slender male figure, likely a boy or youth, in the act of preparing to row or fish. The figure is nude, except for what appears to be a loincloth or minimal covering. He holds a long oar or pole in both hands, with the upper portion extending vertically above his head and the lower part featuring a paddle blade that rests near his left foot. The figure stands within what appears to be a small boat or raft, rendered with textured ripples suggesting water. The entire bronze composition is mounted on a rectangular wooden base with a visible grain, likely stained to a medium reddish-brown hue. The bronze itself exhibits a rich, dark brown patina, characteristic of aged and well-maintained bronze pieces. The craftsmanship suggests a lost-wax casting method, given the detailed rendering of the figure's musculature, hair texture, and the fluid lines of the water. Visible condition issues appear minimal from the image; the patina seems consistent, and there are no obvious breaks, repairs, or significant abrasions. The sculpture conveys a sense of action and determination through the boy's pose and focused downward gaze. While no specific maker's marks or signatures are discernible from the provided images, the quality of the casting and the artistic execution indicate a professional piece. Based on the style and typical bronze production, this sculpture could be estimated to be from the early to mid-20th century, possibly adhering to a neoclassical or realist aesthetic popular during that period. The origin from Belgium provides an additional context.