Jean-Baptiste Héricourt (1756-1849) was a distinguished Parisian bronzier and sculptor, whose refined artistry and technical prowess positioned him among the foremost creators of gilt bronze furnishings during the transformative period spanning the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Born in 1756 in Charenton, the son of a miller, Héricourt rose to prominence through his exceptional skill in bronze work. By 1791, he had established himself in Paris as a “sculptor engraver in bronze,” operating from the corner of Rue Neuve Orléans and Faubourg Saint-Martin.
Héricourt’s oeuvre is emblematic of the neoclassical aesthetic that flourished during the Directory and Empire periods. His creations are characterized by their harmonious proportions, intricate detailing, and the integration of classical motifs. Notably, his works often feature allegorical and mythological themes, rendered with a finesse that underscores his mastery of the medium.
Among his most celebrated works is a pair of Directory period cassolettes, exquisitely crafted in gilt bronze and green marble. Designed around 1793, these pieces were initially created for Tsar Paul I of Russia. Historically attributed to Pierre-Philippe Thomire, recent research by Jean-Dominique Augarde has reassigned these works to Héricourt, affirming his status among the elite bronziers of his time. Similar examples reside in esteemed collections, including Windsor Castle and the Royal Palace in Madrid.
Héricourt’s reputation was further solidified by his participation in the 1806 Exhibition of the Products of French Industry, where he was selected alongside luminaries such as Thomire & Cie, Duport Père et Fils, Claude Galle, and André-Antoine Ravrio to represent the art of gilded bronze. His contributions earned him an honourable mention, reflecting the high esteem in which his work was held.
Throughout his career, Héricourt collaborated with prominent artisans and firms, including Denière & Matelin, Claude Galle, Lucien-François Feuchère, and Pierre-Victor Ledure. His creations adorned the interiors of Europe’s most prestigious residences, such as the Parisian hôtel of Princess Pauline, sister of Napoleon I, and the Pavlovsk Palace in St. Petersburg.
Explore our collection of Empire mantel clocks , Empire candelabra and candlesticks and other decorative art objects by Jean-Baptiste Héricourt and his contemporaries in our gallery.