An excellent late 19th Century French bronze group study of two charming long haired dachshunds coupled together, the favourite pets of Napoleon III. The bronze with excellent hand chased surface detail and splendid rich brown patina, raised on a naturalistic integral oval base and signed E Fremiet.
The bronze sculpture "Ravageot et Ravageole", crafted in 1852, depicts a charming pair of basset hounds. Frémiet, a master of animalier art, skillfully captures the distinct personalities of the two dogs, known for their droopy ears and expressive faces. The hounds are depicted in a lifelike and affectionate pose, highlighting the bond between them. Frémiet's attention to detail, from the textured fur to the playful yet loyal demeanor, showcases his expertise in realistic animal portrayals. This work is celebrated for its blend of naturalism and artistic sensitivity, making it a notable piece in 19th-century French sculpture.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Height: 14 cm
Width: 14 cm
Depth: 17 cm
Condition: Excellent Original Condition
Circa: 1860
Materials: Bronze
Book Ref: Animals in Bronze by Christoper Payne
Page No: 221
SKU: 9241
ABOUT
Emmanuel Frémiet (French, 1824 ~ 1910) Frémiet was born in Paris, he was a nephew and pupil of Sophie Frémiet. He was a renowned sculptor best known for his animalier (animal) sculptures, as well as his monumental public works. Born in Paris, Frémiet showed an early interest in natural history and anatomy, which influenced his realistic depictions of animals. He was a nephew of sculptor François Rude and began his artistic career working in Rude’s studio. Frémiet’s early works focused on small bronze animal figures, earning him recognition as a key figure in the animalier movement alongside artists like Antoine-Louis Barye.
Frémiet served as a professor at the École des Beaux-Arts and was elected to the Académie des Beaux-Arts in 1892. His contributions significantly shaped 19th-century French sculpture, leaving a lasting legacy in both animalier and monumental art.
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