This statuette is known as “La Liseuse” — «The Reader». A lady in a Renaissance dress descends the steps while continuing to read an open book; the combination of movement and concentrated gesture makes the historicized image particularly vivid. Gilt bronze renders the heavy fabric of the dress in broad folds, while the ivory face and hands stand out with a pale, smooth surface. Alonzo often turned to historical and costumed figures, combining traditional narrative subjects with the striking materials of chryselephantine sculpture. The onyx staircase serves not only as a base but also becomes part of the action, establishing a stepped rhythm for the entire group.

minimize...