"Cow Scratching Neck in Field" Bronze Sculpture, Barye, F. Barbedienne

BRONZE SCULPTURE OF COW SCRATCHING NECK IN FIELD
Signed in model "BARYE", "F. Barbedienne Fondeur, Paris"; circa first quarter of 20th century
Item # 607THX20P

This very nice model depicts a cow at pasture scratching her neck against some disheveled fencing. The naturalistic base is signed “Barye”, probably being after a model by Alfred Barye (French, 1839-1882) as his father Antoine-Louis’s work is quite well documented and he only executed a few sculptures depicting bulls with no known examples of cows. Cast during the first quarter of the twentieth century after Barbedienne changed their signature from simply reading “F. Barbedienne Fondeur” to include “F. Barbedienne Fondeur, Paris”, the craftsmanship is of self evident excellence. The animal is finely cast with flawless skin and fine detailing, the patina being most compelling with a rich variation of greenish brown and red hues, the wax finish of a silky and almost plastic touch. 

Measurements:  4 3/4” H x 7 3/4” W x 3 1/2” D

Condition Report:
Original patina in excellent condition, oxidization to base of tail.