“Libellule Héraut” (“Herald Dragonfly”), sometimes “Supreme Elan” 

This piece sits at the transition from Art Nouveau to Art Deco. L’Eplattenier was a student of sculptor Charles Valton (along with Becquerel, Blondat, and Colin, who are also represented in this exhibition). A 1921 review of L’Eplanttenier’s work states he put aside sculpture ‘for the time being’ upon his return from the First World War. His post-war focus on small-scale work like engraving and medals was perhaps necessitated by an injury he received while mobilized.