Sitting Dog "griffon"
Artist: Mène
Sitting dog "Griffon" (or Sitting dog of the Breton breed)
Antique edition cast (circa 1870)
Bronze with shaded brown patina and bronze highlights.
Signed "P.J. MÈNE" on the terrace.
Very fine period edition cast iron with chased details.
Dimensions: H. 17 x 15 x 15 cm.
Historical and stylistic note
Pierre-Jules Mène is considered, alongside Antoine-Louis Barye, one of the leaders of the 19th-century French animal school.
In contrast to Barye, who often turned to wild beasts and dramatic fights, Mène excelled in the fine, domestic and strikingly realistic depiction of pets and hunting animals.
This model of a Seated Dog, sometimes referred to as a Griffon or Breton Dog, testifies to the artist's virtuosity in capturing the animal's lively attitude.
The modeling is characterized by meticulous research into textures: the fur is treated with nervous, vigorous strokes to render the tousled, salt-and-pepper appearance typical of the breed.
The expressive gaze and half-open mouth with a hint of tongue give this work a remarkable presence and sensitivity.
Mène himself ran his own publishing foundry until his death, guaranteeing unrivalled quality of chasing and patina for the casts released from his workshop during his lifetime or by his son-in-law Auguste Cain.
High-definition photo file on request.
Antique edition cast (circa 1870)
Bronze with shaded brown patina and bronze highlights.
Signed "P.J. MÈNE" on the terrace.
Very fine period edition cast iron with chased details.
Dimensions: H. 17 x 15 x 15 cm.
Historical and stylistic note
Pierre-Jules Mène is considered, alongside Antoine-Louis Barye, one of the leaders of the 19th-century French animal school.
In contrast to Barye, who often turned to wild beasts and dramatic fights, Mène excelled in the fine, domestic and strikingly realistic depiction of pets and hunting animals.
This model of a Seated Dog, sometimes referred to as a Griffon or Breton Dog, testifies to the artist's virtuosity in capturing the animal's lively attitude.
The modeling is characterized by meticulous research into textures: the fur is treated with nervous, vigorous strokes to render the tousled, salt-and-pepper appearance typical of the breed.
The expressive gaze and half-open mouth with a hint of tongue give this work a remarkable presence and sensitivity.
Mène himself ran his own publishing foundry until his death, guaranteeing unrivalled quality of chasing and patina for the casts released from his workshop during his lifetime or by his son-in-law Auguste Cain.
High-definition photo file on request.
2 000 €
Period: 19th century
Style: Napoleon 3rd
Condition: Excellent condition
Material: Bronze
Length: 15
Width: 15
Height: 17
Reference (ID): 1767158
Availability: In stock
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