Quimper earthenware statuette of Jeanne Levêque, Our Lady of Deliverance, Quintin Basilica
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Earthenware statuette signed HB Quimper, monogrammed JL for Jeanne Levêque* on the back, representing Our Lady of Deliverance, crowned and holding a scepter, the Infant Jesus on her left arm, inscription Basilique de Quintin (Centre Bretagne) on the back, from the 20th century.
This statuette is in good condition. Signed on the back.
Note: some minor enamel defects, slight soiling and wear from age, see photos.
She grew up in a family deeply connected to the arts. Her father was a decorative painter, and her mother ran a home decor shop. She attended school in La Guerche, where she developed a passion for drawing and took courses in the discipline, first by correspondence and then at the Rennes School of Fine Arts. Encouraged by Mathurin Méheut, whom her father had met during his studies at the Rennes School of Fine Arts, she finally began a professional life that aligned with her aspirations. Her career would remain driven by the unwavering support of this artist and friend, who served as her advisor for many years. In 1944, she enrolled at the School of Applied Arts on Rue Duperré in Paris. Her preferred mode of expression was illustration, but she also showed a talent for sculpting.
1946 - Apprenticeship with Monsieur Texier in Malicorne. 1948 - Establishment of his first workshop in La Guerche-de-Bretagne. Production of original pieces entirely handcrafted; the entire production was exhibited at the Perdriel Gallery in Rennes. 1950 - Trip to Saint-Anne-la-Palud. Mathurin Méheut introduced him to the large gathering for the Pardon festival. Numerous sketches were made at this time, depicting women and children in regional costumes and groups of Roma arriving for the third day; these would become the source of inspiration for future subjects. 1952-62 - Highly varied production of small series or masterpieces for exhibitions or commissioned by collectors (figures for the markets of La Guerche, Breton women from the Plougastel region, statues of saints, nativity scenes and non-figurative decorative pieces, tableware). Series of jewelry, some with Celtic inspiration, and advertising series produced in large quantities. Participation in the first Cannes International Ceramics Festival in 1955. Participation in international exhibitions organized by the Chamber of Trades. Award-winning research, including a gold medal at the Munich Crafts Exhibition in 1978. In 1996, Pierre Henriot, director of the Breton Art Pottery, discovered his religious statues created in the 1960s. The pottery then acquired and produced them. (See the Divet Gallery website)
Highly regarded artist on Artprice.