Late 19th Century French Spelter Allegorical Sculpture of a Female Musician

This is a classical allegorical sculpture, likely French in origin, dating back to the late 19th century (circa 1880-1900). The figure depicts a draped woman in a dynamic contrapposto stance atop a rocky naturalistic base, which is set upon a multi-tiered circular plinth. She is shown holding a lyre in her left hand, while her right arm is uplifted, likely having originally held a missing attribute like a torch or laurel wreath. The piece is constructed from spelter (white metal) and finished with a multi-toned bronze-style patina, showing warm reddish-brown highlights and darker chocolate recessed areas. The casting quality displays hallmarks of the Belle Époque style, featuring flowing ribbons and intricate drapery folds that suggest movement. A brass plate or nameplate is visible at the very bottom center of the base, though the specific inscription is obscured. Condition-wise, the statue shows significant signs of age and wear; there is a notable loss to the object in her raised hand, and the strings of the lyre appear bent. The patina exhibits rubbing on high points, consistent with age, and there is a visible layer of surface dust and oxidation. This type of sculpture was popular as a mantle garniture or decorative parlor piece during the Victorian era, often produced by foundry masters like Auguste Moreau or Hippolyte Moreau.