Allegory Of The Hunt In Patinated Terracotta, Signed Le Brun, 19th Century Work.

An elegant 19th-century terracotta sculpture depicting an allegory of the hunt, in a style directly inherited from 18th-century decorative sculpture. The composition features two children, rendered as putti, in a scene that is both lively and narrative. One, standing in a spirited pose, brandishes a bird evoking game, while the other, seated, holds a hunting horn and turns his gaze towards his companion. At their feet, a hunting dog completes the ensemble, reinforcing the hunting theme of the scene. The group rests on a finely modeled, naturalistic mound, where foliage and organic textures are rendered with fluidity and sensitivity. The modeling is distinguished by a high quality of execution: full flesh, expressive faces, natural poses—all elements that testify to a sculptor perfectly mastering the vocabulary inherited from the 18th century. This work belongs to the tradition of compositions inspired by André Jean Le Brun, a student of Jean-Baptiste Pigalle and winner of the Grand Prix de Rome in 1756, whose career unfolded between Rome, Poland, and Russia. A renowned sculptor during his lifetime, he was notably appointed First Sculptor to King Stanislas Auguste Poniatowski and participated in important decorative programs. Although his work is relatively little known in France today, his style—a blend of grace, naturalism, and a taste for allegorical scenes—greatly influenced 19th-century productions, as this model demonstrates. This is an early terracotta cast, retaining its original patina, with slight wear consistent with age that contributes to its authenticity and charm. The sculpture bears the signature “Le Brun,” visible on the base. It is presented on a later molded oak plinth, which elegantly underscores its presence. The sculpture itself measures 50 cm high, 42 cm wide, and 27 cm deep. With its base, the entire piece reaches a total height of 61 cm and a width of 50 cm. It is in very good condition.