Bronze Animal Sculpture Of A Reclining German Shepherd Dog By Jean Joire

Bronze animal sculpture of a reclining German Shepherd dog with a studded collar by Jean Joire (1862-1950).
Signed J. Joire.
Foundry mark: Susse Foundry of Paris = "Susse Frs Edts" for Susse Frères, publishers.
Lost-wax casting inscription.
Beautiful brown patina.

Jean Joire (1862–1950) was a French animal sculptor, born in Lille into a family of bankers.
After studying at the Lille Academy of Fine Arts, he initially worked in banking before devoting himself entirely to sculpture.
He is best known for his bronze sculptures of horses, a subject he explored throughout his life with great technical mastery and a particular sensitivity.
His work, although rare and focused on this theme, is recognized for its exceptional quality and its "soul," which gives it a unique place in French animal art.
Joire also opened a sculpture school in Lille in collaboration with Jacques Merculiano. His works were exhibited regularly at the Salon des Artistes Français from 1891 onwards, where he mainly presented sheepdogs and horses. His bronzes, of impeccable perfection, continue to attract the attention of collectors and lovers of animal art.