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French Bronze Sculpture "Bison Et Jaguar" after Georges Gardet

Creator: Georges Gardet
Offered by: Silla, ltd.

Description
Originally exhibited by Georges Gardet in 1892, the monumental version of this sculpture was acquired for the entrance of the Museum of Laval in the same year and remains one of Gardet's most popular and recognized works. Like the majority of his work, the present example was cast by the foundry of Siot-Decauville and retains their foundry cachet along the edge of the base, also being numbered subsequently "D82". The inordinately fine modeling and casting of the sculpture is noteworthy, though typical of Gardet's work, always exceptionally well detailed and exquisitely cast. In this model, a Jaguar has leapt onto the back of a Bison intent on pulling him to the ground; the scale of the Jaguar to the Bison is fascinating, the latter dwarfing the cat in this violent struggle.

Literature & Further Reading:

Bronzes of the Nineteenth Century: A Dictionary of Sculptors, Pierre Kjellberg, p. 341-345
Animals in Bronze, Christopher Payne, p. 180/f. Catl36 (present example, noted at 8 1/2" H); p. 405 (biography)
The Animaliers, James Mackay, p. 65
Bronze Sculpture of 'Les Animaliers', Jane Horswell, p. 265 (present example, noted at 8 1/2" H)
E. Benezit Dictionary of Artists, Vol. V, Gründ, 2006, p. 1332 (biographical & sale results)
Revue Encyclopédique : Recueil Documentaire Universel Et Illustré, 1892, p. 957 (in depth contemporary discussion of "Bison et Jaguar" the same year of exhibition)
Christies, 28 November 2007, Sale 1910, lot 140 (titled "Lion attaquant un bison", 9" H, cast by Siot, retailed by Tiffany, # 6447); achieved $ 11,250 USD

Measurements: 8 5/8" H x 16 1/2" W x 5 7/8" D

Condition Report:
Light scuffs to Jaguar's tail, minor handling wear to relief, fine original patina preserved under wax. Cleaned, polished and in fine presentation-ready condition.

More Information

Documentation:	Signed
Origin:	France
Period:	1900-1919
Materials:	Bronze
Condition:	Good.
Styles / Movements:	Traditional
Dealer Reference #:	902SGP02A
Incollect Reference #:	333146