Astronomy and GeographyFélix Lecomte · 1778

The Creation of Astronomy and Geography

Astronomy and Geography is a sculptural group executed by Félix Lecomte in 1778. Produced in France, the work emerged during a period of significant stylistic transition in European sculpture. The piece was part of a larger decorative program commissioned by Abbé Joseph-Marie Terray. This series of four groups, each created by a different sculptor, was intended to symbolize the arts and sciences.

The commission was specifically designed for the Gallery of the Abbé Terray's Parisian townhouse located on rue Nôtre-Dame-des-Champs. While the individual groups were the work of different hands, they were intended to maintain a homogeneous style within the residence. Lecomte’s contribution to this set focused on the representation of scientific inquiry through the figures of two children.

Composition and Symbolic Elements

The sculptural group is organized around two central figures representing the sciences. On the left, a kneeling putto embodies Geography, using dividers to measure a globe. With his left hand, he pulls back a drapery that partially covers the sphere. To the right, a standing putto represents Astronomy, holding a telescope in his right hand and a parchment in his left. The reverse of this parchment features a design of concentric circles and bears the inscription Sisteme de Copernic.

The base of the composition is scattered with objects denoting measurement and nature. A ruler and a bouquet of roses lie on the ground near the figures. At the rear of the group, two telescope cases rest on the floor, one of which is encircled by a laurel wreath. These elements anchor the figures within a space defined by scientific inquiry and classical decoration.

Materials and Technical Details

Executed in Carrara marble, this sculptural group measures 949 x 803 x 483 mm. The choice of medium allows for the precise rendering of anatomical detail and the varied textures of the children's forms. The work is part of a larger decorative program consisting of four groups of children intended to symbolize the arts and sciences.

The artist's hand is identified through specific markings on the piece. The sculpture is signed and dated on the reverse of the parchment held by the figure representing Astronomy, inscribed as LECOMTE 1778. Additionally, the reverse of the same parchment bears the inscription "Sisteme de Copernic".

Provenance and Collection History

Commissioned by Abbé Joseph-Marie Terray for his Parisian townhouse on rue Nôtre-Dame-des-Champs, the marble group was inherited by his nephew, Antoine-Jean Terray, viscount Rozières, in 1778. Following the death of the Abbé, the work was offered for sale at the Hôtel d'Aumont by F.C. Joullain & Sons on 20 January 1779.

The sculpture passed through several hands, including the collection of Claude-Hippolyte Terray, count Rozières, and possibly Auguste-Charles-Joseph comte de Flahault. It was likely acquired by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild before 1897. The piece was subsequently inherited by Alice de Rothschild in 1898.

The work remained within the family until it was bequeathed by James de Rothschild in 1957.

Current Location and Display

The sculpture is held within the Waddesdon collection and is managed by the National Trust. It is cataloged under accession number 3158. This marble group is currently situated in the East Gallery, where it remains part of the permanent collection.

The work is displayed in a setting that reflects its historical context as a decorative element. It occupies a position within the gallery that allows for the observation of its three-dimensional form and the intricate carving of the Carrara marble. The placement emphasizes the sculptural group's original purpose as a component of a larger decorative scheme intended for a private residence.