Animal Bronze By Barye (1796 - 1875): Walking Tiger

Bronze sculpture with brown patina Superb bronze animal sculpture representing a walking tiger, the work of Antoine-Louis Barye, undisputed master of French animal romanticism.
The wild animal is captured in a natural posture, in movement, its head turned, its mouth half-open revealing its fangs, as if on alert. The finesse of the muscular modeling, the rendering of the fur by slight incised furrows, as well as the expressiveness of the face, demonstrate all of Barye's technical and artistic know-how.
The sculpture rests on a sober rectangular base, integrated into the cast, and bears the signature "BARYE" engraved in capital letters, clearly visible.
Antoine-Louis Barye: master of animal art Born in Paris in 1796, Antoine-Louis Barye is considered the founder of modern animal sculpture. A student of Gros and then of the sculptor Bosio, he developed a pronounced taste for wild animals, which he observed at length at the Jardin des Plantes. His works, often imbued with movement and vitality, combine rigorous naturalism and romantic expressiveness. Barye is also known for his relationship with the foundry firm F. Barbedienne, who produced a large part of his work in bronze. He was appointed professor of drawing at the Museum of Natural History, and later a member of the Academy of Fine Arts. Authenticity Signature "BARYE" in capitals engraved on the base (see photo).
Antique cast, brown patina with golden accents.
Sculpture in excellent condition, showing gentle wear typical of period bronzes.
This work is a perfect illustration of 19th-century Romantic art, and a must-have for lovers of animal sculpture.