catalog text
"LIONNE À L'AFFUT" CAST AFTER MODEL BY ISIDORE JULES BONHEUR
With PEYROL foundry cachet, a fine lifetime cast
Item # 902WGP02Z
An exceptional cast of Isidore Jules Bonheur's "Stalking Lion", he also modeled an opposing Lioness that likewise walked an upward slope, both presumably with a prey in sight. Like all of his bronze sculptures, the present example was cast by his brother-in-law, Hippolyte Peyrol, with the naturalistic base bearing his tiny cold-stamped mark along the upper edge. The lion is expertly modeled with an intensity observed in every aspect of his figure. The sheer size of the beast is emphasized as he dominates the base completely, quietly creeping up to overlook the edge where unsuspecting prey presumably rest out of our view. His muscles are tensed and finely portrayed as he lowers his frame to rest one paw completely on the ground to maintain his cover. Equal attention is shown to the base, this being designed to completely conform with the figure - the underside shows Peyrol's typical handling of the construction. It is finished in a green and black chemical patina and is signed in his typical blocked script "I. BONHEUR" on the rocky base.
Measurements: 8 1/4" H x 17 5/8" W x 5" D
Condition Report:
Very minor rubbing to relief. Excellent original condition.