Statue of Liberty: Terracotta Maquette or Working Model. 50" tall metal & terracotta maquette of the Statue of Liberty, known originally as "Liberty Enlightening the World". It dates circa 1875-1882. A corner of the base has the impressed seal of the "Union Franco Americaine" with the monogram of the organization. One side is incised "Modele du Comité No. 37 Bartholdi". The sculptor was Frederic-Auguste Bartholdi (1834-1904). Prior to its completion and installation in 1886, the statue was produced in various "reductions" aimed to raise money, or in sections which were sent to the United States for exhibit. The base measures 12" x 12". The statue is hollow with metal spikes imbedded in the torch, representing rays of light. The tablet Liberty holds is inscribed "4th July 1776". It is fully intact with minor scattered chips to the surface. We do not detect any breaks or repairs. It appears to be raw, untreated masonry with a lightly applied glaze to the folds of the garment. Excellent condition overall and quite rare. An example last sold 20 years at a New York auction house.