"Standing Ram" | Isidore Bonheur

ISIDORE JULES BONHEUR
French, 1827-1901

"Standing Ram"

Patinated bronze | sand-cast ca. 1870 | signed to base "I. BONHEUR" | no foundry mark but almost certainly cast by Peyrol | underside noted 328 in ink

Item # 412GWR05A  The models of Rams by Isidore Bonheur are some of the most cherished models he completed.  The present example, like the majority of Bonheur’s work, was almost without doubt cast by the foundry operated by his brother-in-law Hippolyte Peyrol - it is not cold-stamped by the foundry but is constructed in their distinct method.

The detail is above reproach, as is always the case with his work during this period. The ram’s face is scientifically exact, a flawless representation of reality expressed in the legs, hooves and proportions; the thick and unruly wool is sculpted in a complex and highly effective manner.  A gorgeous and complex patina of light brown with a darker brown in the recesses highlights the texture throughout the model. Artist Listings & Bibliography: Animals in Bronze, Christopher Payne, 2006, p. 371, f. S8 [an example of the present model cast circa 1850s, 8 1/4" x 7"]
Measurements: 7 5/8" H x 8 5/8" W x 3 11/16" D Condition Report: Very good original condition. Light patina wear to edges of base and raised elements. Carefully cleaned and sealed in conservator's wax. A fine presentation.