Antique 19th c. French Autumn & Winter Putti Garden Statues (pair)

Antique Garden Statues

• antique circa 1890
• found in Paris, France
• sold as a pair
• Approximately 27" high x 18" wide x 7.5" deep

A charming pair of French garden putti, each delicately sculpted with soft, expressive features and classical grape motifs symbolizing abundance, and drapery motifs symbolizing stillness. Crafted in stone and beautifully weathered over time, their aged patina and natural moss growth lend an authentic old-world presence—perfect for bringing a sense of romance and history to the garden or interior.

Historical Context

While the Greeks initially used the Horae (goddesses) to represent the seasons, Romans popularized the use of putti (winged, often nude infants) in these roles. These figures appear on Roman sarcophagi, serving as allegories for agricultural cycles, and became highly popular in neoclassical and garden art during the Renaissance and later periods.

• Spring: Often portrayed with wreaths of flowers, bouquets, or leafy garments symbolizing renewal, youth, and growth.
• Summer: Shown with wheat sheaves, laurel branches, or cornucopias, often wearing a laurel wreath to represent abundance, harvest, and warmth.
• Autumn: Characterized by bunches of grapes, vines, or baskets of fruit, symbolizing the harvest, maturity, and wine making.
• Winter: Represented as an older or heavily cloaked child, sometimes with bare branches, symbolizing cold, stillness, and rest.