Monument commemorating the "Légion d'Honneur" of General Kléber.

Monument commemorating the "Légion d'Honneur" of General Kléber. France, second half of the 19th century
In silver and Belgian marble.
With punches.
Measurements: 29 × 23 × 15 cm.

Superb sculptural group of classicist inspiration, made in silver and mounted on a solid base of Belgian black marble, conceived as a commemorative monument to the "Légion d'Honneur" of General Jean-Baptiste Kléber (1753-1800), one of the most outstanding French officers of the revolutionary wars.

The ensemble is articulated around a central standing figure, elevated on the main podium, representing an allegory of Victory or glory, dressed in classical tunic and holding a shield in one hand and a laurel wreath or flowers in the other, universal symbols of honor and triumph. At her sides, in a seated position, are two female figures also of classical aesthetics: one holds a caduceus, emblem of peace and prosperity, while the other is accompanied by a horn of plenty, representing fertility and wealth. Coats of arms and other military attributes complete the iconographic program, underlining the heroic and commemorative character of the ensemble.

The style responds to the neoclassical and academic taste that dominated the official French sculpture of the mid and late nineteenth century, a period in which the allegorical language was used for patriotic and commemorative purposes. This miniature monument, finely worked and executed in precious metals, is part of the tradition of prestige objects created to celebrate the great military figures of Napoleonic history and the ideals of honor, virtue and national glory.