Sculpture - Resting Hare , Pierre - Jules Mêne (1810-1879) - Bronze

Bronze proof, with brown patina , depicting a hare at rest , presented in an attitude of observation , by the sculptor Pierre-Jules Mêne (1810-1879) .
The hare is represented with a slender body , with long erect ears , its large and powerful hind legs folded under the body , designed for running , ensuring it a good relaxation .
They also allow the hare to sit up to gain some height and observe its environment with a wider field of vision .
In animal sculpture , Mêne's bronzes are all perfectly treated in a realistic manner , and represented with an artistic truth and an anatomical rigor that will not weaken over the years .
Signature of the sculptor "P.J.MÊNE" in hollow , on the naturalistic oval terrace , decorated with alfalfa .
Sculpture of old edition , period second part of the 19th century .
Perfect state of conservation and patina .

Dimensions : 9 cm x 11.8 cm

Pierre - Jules Mêne (1810-1879)

Pierre - Jules Mêne is a French sculptor , born on March 25 , 1810 in Paris , the city where he died on May 20 , 1879 . 

He is considered to be one of the main representatives of animal sculpture in the 19th century .
Pierre - Jules Mene produced many animal sculptures , particularly in vogue under the Second Empire , like Antoine-Louis Barye , Auguste Caïn , Pierre Louis Rouillard and , later , François Pompon .

P.J Mêne specialized in small bronzes, and did not produce work for public statuary .
His animal subjects have enjoyed great popular success .
Exclusive publisher of his works , the perfection of his productions is widely recognized .
He reveals himself , with Antoine-Louis Barye , as the one whose success has been the most constant , and this over the longest period .

Pierre - Jules Mêne appears to be one of the best wax practitioners of his time .