Sculpture - Racehorse , Henri De Vains (1851 - 1909) - Bronze

Bronze proof with brown patina , representing a racehorse , Thoroughbred , by sculptor Henri de Vains (1851-1909) .
H.R. de Vains , a skilled horseman and great racing enthusiast , captured his subjects on the spot , going directly to observe the horses on the racecourses or watching them evolve within his property . He was one of the leading exponents of "Sporting Art" in the 19th century .
Signature of sculptor "H.R de VAINS.", on the naturalistic terrace .
Antique bronze, period second part of the 19th century .
Perfect condition and patina .

Dimensions: 33.8 cm x 38 cm x 12 cm

Henri de Vains (1851 - 1909)

Henri Marie Joseph Regnouf De Vains known as "Henri de Vains" , was a French sculptor , originally from La Manche , specializing in animal art, and in particular in equestrian sculptures .
He was the grandson of Marc Regnouf de Vains , deputy of the Manche department from 1815 to 1823 , and sub-prefect of Avranches from 1822 to 1830 .

A disciple of Antoine - Louis Barye (1795-1875) , H.R. de Vains was a great racing enthusiast , capturing his subjects on the spot .
Emeritus horseman and great connoisseur of hippology , this aristocrat devoted most of his work to the equestrian universe .
He is, along with Alfred de Dreux for painting , one of the main representatives of "Sporting Art" in the 19th century , and both do not hesitate to represent the horse alone , in equestrian competition or during hunts .
"Mounted Trot", "Cobesse Mare", "Back from the hunt"and "Mare and foal" are his most famous works . 

Henri de Vains rubbed shoulders with the elegant art Salons like all the dandies of his day .