Small Animalier Bronze Signed “mene” Depicting A Reclining Buffalo

Charming small animalier bronze depicting a reclining buffalo resting upon a rocky naturalistic base, its head raised in a calm and attentive posture.

The sculpture is appealing for the expressive simplicity of its modelling and for its rich dark brown patina, delicately worn in places to reveal warmer highlights and emphasize the animal’s powerful forms. Compact and well balanced, the composition reflects the decorative animal sculpture tradition popular at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century.

The terrace bears the signature “MENE”, recalling the work of the celebrated French animal sculptor Pierre-Jules Mêne. While the exact model could not be formally identified within the documented oeuvre of the artist, the piece clearly belongs to the tradition of small animal bronzes inspired by his work, highly appreciated during the late 19th century.

Despite its modest dimensions, the sculpture possesses a strong decorative presence, making it ideal for a library, cabinet of curiosities, or refined interior display.

Dimensions:
Height: 2.75 in. (7 cm)
Base: 3.9 × 2 in. (10 × 5 cm)

Gallery View
We particularly appreciate the peaceful yet powerful character of the animal. Despite its small scale, this bronze has a genuine visual density and catches the light beautifully through its subtly worn patina. A sincere and lively decorative object, evocative of the great 19th century animal bronzes in a more intimate format, equally at home in both contemporary and traditional interiors.