Pair Spelter Figures after Ernst Rancoulet, C1900

Ernst Rancoulet was a celebrated French sculptor, working in the late Victorian and Edwardian  eras. He died shortly after 1910. Some of his sculptures were sold through Tiffany’s. These are highly sought after.  This pair of ladies are signed to the back, with plagues to the front reading, “After Rancoulet.” They are named "Oracle" and "Surprise." It is safe to assume the originals of these would have been cast in bronze. These are much heavier than the usual English spelter figures. The green (“Verdigris”) colouring to them, I believe was originally applied to give then that tarnished, weathered look found on bronzes of the  classical period. The condition of these would suggests they may have been exposed to the elements at some time during their long lives. (These were often placed out of doors next to ornamental ponds and the likes.) Both their noses have been rubbed. "Surprise" has come off her plinth, but due to her weight, rests securely on it. The back of the arm of “Oracle” shows signs of the metal having deteriorated. Although a gap has opened there, the metal is too thick for it to result in the arm coming off. Please study the pictures carefully.  They stand about 58 cm. tall, on marbled, wooden bases.  For spelter, they are heavy, so please add R75 for postage.