‘Zaporozhian Cossack After Battle', Russian patinated bronze sculpture

‘Zaporozhian Cossack After Battle', Russian patinated bronze sculpture after Lanceray
Russian, Late 19th Century
Height 67cm, width 42cm, depth 21cm
 
This finely cast bronze sculpture, titled ‘Zaporozhian Cossack After Battle’, is modelled after a composition by renowned Russian artist Yevgeny Nikolayevich Lanceray (1848–1886). Produced by the Chopin Foundry in St. Petersburg, this example reflects the foundry’s hallmark craftsmanship and precision.
 
The work vividly captures a poignant scene - a Zaporozhian Cossack mounted on horseback, depicted in the aftermath of conflict. The Zaporozhians, a self-governing and militarized society of warriors, lived near the Dnieper River (modern-day Ukraine) from the 15th to 18th centuries. Known for their fierce independence, they were key resistors of Ottoman, Polish, and Russian incursions.
 
The Cossack is shown dressed in traditional, flowing attire, crowned with a fur cap typical of the period. A sword rests in his hand, while a rifle hangs from his back. His downward gaze and still posture suggest a moment of solemn reflection, perhaps assessing the weight of battle or contemplating his next course of action.
 
Accompanying him is a second horse, fully equipped with a saddle and mounted weaponry, enriching the narrative and lending further realism to the composition. The level of detail throughout the piece is superb.
 
The sculptural group is set upon an oval base in a naturalistic style, inscribed in Cyrillic with several foundry marks, including that of the Chopin Foundry.
 
A compelling fusion of historical storytelling and artistic excellence, this bronze makes an impressive and historically rich addition to any fine art or 19th century Russian sculpture collection.