SCULPTURE -"RECLINING BEAR" , ANTOINE-LOUIS BARYE (1795-1875) - BRONZE

A bronze sculpture with a brown patina, depicting "The Reclining Bear" , an emblematic work , by the sculptor Antoine-Louis Barye .
The representation of nature and animals in Barye's sculptures reflects a rapidly changing 19th century , blending Romanticism , Realism , science , and Symbolism , while seeking to pay homage to the majesty of the animal world . 
The bear is depicted in a calm , reclining posture , which evokes a sense of intimacy with the animal . 
The sculpture's composition , with its harmonious proportions , gives the bear an imposing and lifelike presence . 
The meticulous details , such as the fur and prominent muscles , testify to the sculptor's realism and technical expertise . 
This work transcends mere representation ,  it evokes a profound admiration for the natural world . 
This piece remains a lasting testament to the artistic excellence of Antoine-Louis Barye . 
An early edition sculpture , signed "BARYE" , in relief on the naturalistic base . 
Second half of the 19th century . 
In perfect condition , with excellent patina . 

Dimensions : 10 cm x 12 cm x 7.5 cm

Antoine - Louis Barye (1795-1875)

Famous for his animal sculptures , Antoine-Louis Barye is a silversmith's son , who is trained in metalwork with a military equipment manufacturer and Jacques - Henri Fauconnier.

In 1818 , he entered the Paris School of Fine Arts and apprenticed in the studio of sculptor François Joseph Bosio and painter Jean-Antoine Gros .
After several failures at theThe Grand Prix of Rome , Antoine-Louis Barye slammed the door of the Fine Arts in 1825 .
He then turned to animal sculpture which he would bring back up to date .
With his friend Delacroix , he goes regularly to the menagerie of the Natural History Museum to study and observe animals .

It was in 1831 that Barye made himself known to the general public by exhibiting "The Tiger Devouring a Gavial" (Louvre) at the Salon , a work staging a violent fight "of impressive virtuosity".
Two years later , he triumphed with "The Lion and the Snake" plaster , which was also successfully exhibited in its bronze version at the Salon of 1836 .
Preferring bronze to marble considered too cold , the artist multiplied statuettes and small groups animals,that he melts and chisels himself .

Barye died at the age of 80 , leaving behind an important production of drawings , watercolors and paintings as well as sculptures , pieces of goldsmith's work .
His works can be seen at the Louvre and Orsay Museums .

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