Bronze Sculpture—elephant—barye—barbedienne—france—19th Century

Senegalese Elephant – Antoine-Louis Barye – Barbedienne

A superb bronze sculpture with a nuanced brown patina, depicting a Senegalese elephant in motion, with its trunk raised and tusks visible. The animal is depicted in a particularly dynamic pose, with remarkable modeling: skin folds, ears, musculature, and anatomical details are finely rendered.

The elephant stands on a richly detailed, naturalistic pedestal, evoking the rugged terrain over which the animal moves. The base bears the signature “BARYE” as well as the stamp of the foundryman Ferdinand Barbedienne. An old handwritten inscription in ink, preserved in its original condition, is also visible beneath the base and may serve as an identifier or indication of provenance.

This work is characteristic of the animal sculpture of Antoine-Louis Barye (1796–1875), considered one of the great French masters of 19th-century animal sculpture. The casting by Ferdinand Barbedienne, a renowned Parisian foundryman, attests to the quality and widespread distribution of Barye’s work.

An elegant and highly decorative sculpture, of particular interest to collectors of Barye, animal bronzes, or works from the Barbedienne foundry.

Artist: Antoine-Louis Barye (1796–1875)
Title: Elephant from Senegal
Material: Bronze with a brown patina and subtle variations
Foundry: Ferdinand Barbedienne
Signature: BARYE
Stamp: F. Barbedienne Fondeur
Distinguishing feature: old handwritten inscription in ink on the base
Period: 19th century / antique cast
Dimensions: approximately 7 × 10 cm
Condition: Good overall condition, beautiful antique patina, wear consistent with age.