Henri Jacobs Bust

Q: A few years ago, I was at a garage sale and spotted a bronze-colored bust of a classical woman. I instantly fell in love with her. She’s imprinted on the back with the artist’s signature, “Henri Jacobs,” and “copyright 1904 by Napoleon Alliot.” I would like to know more about the maker of this bust.

A: Henri Jacobs (1864-1935) has been called the “father of Belgian Art Nouveau.” He was an artist and architect and was also known for his Art Nouveau busts of women. Napoleon Alliot was a sculptor who also had a foundry. Your bust could sell at auction for more tha $1,000 even though it is not bronze.