Sculpture - Mare And Foal , Pierre - Jules Mêne (1810–1879) - Bronze

A bronze group with a nuanced brown patina , depicting "MARE AND FOAL", an iconic work by the animal sculptor Pierre-Jules Mêne.
The series of horses is one of the strongest in the sculptor’s collection.
The artist considered this work one of his greatest achievements and one of his major groups.
This group depicts a mare and her foal at a watering hole, illustrating both maternal tenderness and the animal’s power.
Romanticism is clearly evident in his subjects, in which the horse plays a prominent role.
The work reflects the growing enthusiasm for realistic depictions of animals during this period and establishes the sculptor as a pioneer in the field of animal sculpture.
The finesse of the details and expressions helps bring this composition to life and make it expressive.
The group rests on a naturalistic terrace, richly chiseled and adorned with trees, bearing the sculptor’s signature “P.J.MÊNE”.
Sculpture dating from the second half of the 19th century.
In perfect condition with excellent patina.

Dimensions: 7 cm x 14.5 cm x 7.4 cm

Pierre-Jules Mene (1810–1879)

Pierre - Jules Mene , is a French sculptor , born March 25 , 1810 in Paris , city where he died on May 20 1879 .

He is considered to be one of the main representatives of animal sculpture in the 19th century .
Pierre - Jules Mene produced many animal sculptures , particularly in vogue under the Second Empire, like Antoine-Louis Barye , Auguste Caïn , Pierre Louis Rouillard and , later , François Pompon .

P.J Mene specialized in small bronzes, and did not produce work for public statuary .
His animal subjects have enjoyed great popular success .
Exclusive publisher of his works , the perfection of his productions is widely recognized .
He reveals himself , with Antoine-Louis Barye , as the one whose success has been the most constant , and this over the longest period .

Pierre - Jules Mene appears to be one of the best practitioners of his time .