Pair Of Sculptures, “the Horses Of Marly,” Based On A Design By Guillaume Coustou The Elder (1677–1746)

The pair of sculptures known as the “Horses of Marly,” also called “The Horse Tamer,” is a high-quality bronze interpretation of one of the most iconic masterpieces of 18th-century French court sculpture. The composition is inspired by the original marble group created by Guillaume Coustou the Elder for the terrace of the royal palace at Marly-le-Roi during the reign of Louis XV.

The sculptures depict young nude men struggling to subdue rearing horses. The dramatic tension of the scene rests on the striking contrast between the untamed power of the animals and the rigorous academic treatment of human anatomy. The figures are set within a complex spatial movement, creating an impression of continuous action and controlled dynamism.

The bronzes are cast with great finesse. The musculature of the human figures, the animated manes and taut necks of the horses, as well as the expressive gestures, are rendered with remarkable precision. The surfaces retain a deep, uniform patina with warm tones, which accentuates the relief and the play of light. Each sculpture rests on a carved marble base, lending the ensemble a solemn and decorative character.

Materials: Bronze; marble.
Dimensions: Height – 66 cm; Width – 53 cm; Depth – 48 cm (each sculpture).
Condition: Good.
Provenance: Photographic archives of a private collection. Formerly part of the Princely Collection of Liechtenstein, exhibited at the Stadtpalais in Vienna and at Vaduz Castle, Liechtenstein, in 1945.