WHAT MAKES A SCULPTURE AN ORIGINAL
An original is not necessarily unique
In sculpture, the word “original” can be confusing. Unlike a unique work, an original bronze sculpture may exist in several casts when it is produced as a limited edition.
All are made from the same model created by the artist and produced under the artist’s supervision. The number is determined in advance, and each cast is individually identified.
This is one of the ways in which sculpture differs from painting, where an original generally refers to a single work.
A strictly limited edition
Under French rules governing art bronzes, an original edition may comprise up to twelve casts: eight numbered from 1/8 to 8/8 and four artist’s proofs marked EA.
This limit is an integral part of the edition. Once the specified number has been reached, no additional bronze casts may be added to it.
The numbering indicates the place of each bronze within the edition. A cast marked 4/8 is the fourth of the eight numbered casts.
Signature and numbering
The artist’s signature and the numbering on the bronze make it possible to identify it directly as part of an original edition. This information also appears on the certificate of authenticity, which records the work’s characteristics and identification.
The numbering does not indicate a difference in quality. A cast numbered 1/8 is not, in principle, superior to one numbered 6/8: both belong to the same edition and have the same status as originals.
Each casting may nevertheless show slight variations, particularly in its finish or patina, due to the craftsmanship involved in its creation.
What does “artist’s proof” mean?
The four artist’s proofs are included among the twelve casts permitted in an original edition. They are generally marked EA, sometimes accompanied by numbering such as EA I/IV.
The term comes from the historical practice of reserving certain casts for the artist. They are neither reproductions nor additional casts beyond the edition: they have the same status as originals as the eight numbered bronzes.
Alain Choisnet’s sculptures
Alain Choisnet’s bronze sculptures are primarily offered as limited original editions. Once the first cast is made, the type of edition and the total number of casts that may be produced are established.
Once an edition is sold out, no further casts can be produced as part of that edition.
An original sculpture is therefore not necessarily unique. Its originality lies in the artist’s creation and in a clearly defined, limited edition.