Théodore Rivière (1857-1912) Salammbô chez Mathô, Je t'aime ! je t'aime ! Bronze with a double light brown and golden patina Signed "Théodore Rivière" on the terrace Titled "Carthage" Bears the mark "Susse Frres Edteurs Paris. (Cire perdue)" and the circular insert of the founder on the edge of the terrace H : 41 cm Soiling and pitting of oxidation Related work : Théodore Rivière, Salammbô chez Mathô, Je t'aime ! Je t'aime !, 1895, small group in bronze, ivory, gold and turquoise, H. 40 cm, Paris, Musée d'Orsay, n°inv. RF 2521, LUX 131. The title "CARTHAGE" inscribed on the base is a reference to the famous novel by Gustave Flaubert Salammbô published in 1862. It tells the story of Mathô's death during the war between Carthage and the barbarian soldiers. Presented at the Salon des Artistes Français in 1895 under the title "Salammbô chez Mathô, Je t'aime ! je t'aime !", the original model in bronze, ivory, gold and turquoise by Théodore Rivière was a great success. The work, acquired by the State, is kept at the Musée d'Orsay. The enthusiasm received by the public leads the sculptor to execute different versions in bronze and in cookie.