47 - Alfred MARZOLFF (1867–1936)

Alfred MARZOLFF (1867–1936) La Marseillaise Plaster with red patina. H_66 cm W_38 cm D_37 cm Slight wear on the patina, a few minor chips. Alfred-Frédéric MARZOLFF, born on March 4, 1867, in Strasbourg and died on May 4, 1936, in Rountzenheim (Bas-Rhin), was one of the most important sculptors in Alsace during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. After an apprenticeship with the Strasbourg sculptor Eugène Dock, he continued his studies at the Strasbourg School of Decorative Arts, then at the Munich Academy beginning in 1889. There, he worked notably with Wilhelm von Rümann and met Adolf von Hildebrand. His work *The Archer*, created in Munich, earned him a first-prize state award. Upon his return to Strasbourg, he taught for a time at the School of Decorative Arts and became involved with the Cercle Saint-Léonard—an artistic movement led notably by Charles SPINDLER that sought to promote Alsatian arts and traditions. His commitment took on special significance in the context of Alsace’s annexation by the German Empire, a period during which artists played an important role in preserving and asserting the region’s cultural identity. Alfred Marzolff’s significance to Alsace stems above all from the richness and diversity of his work. He helped revitalize regional sculpture by infusing it with a modern, expressive, and monumental aesthetic, while remaining deeply attached to his homeland. His works reflect a particular interest in historical figures and political leaders, as well as in workers and traditional trades. In this way, he immortalized various facets of Alsatian society, from prominent public figures to ordinary men and women. Related Work: *La Marseillaise*, a public bronze sculpture erected in Strasbourg in 1922. After the annexation of Alsace by Nazi Germany, the monument became a target due to its French patriotic significance. In July 1940, it was destroyed by the Nazis as part of their policy of erasing French and republican symbols in Alsace. Although it was reconstructed in 1980, the artist’s original sculpture no longer exists. Only a few rare plaster studies remain, one of which we are presenting today.