catalog text
"COMBAT DE DEUX MOINEAUX" BRONZE SCULPTURE BY JULES MOIGNIEZ (FRENCH, 1835-1894)
Depicting a pair of fighting sparrows, overall brown patina with traces of silver; signed J. Moigniez
Item # 912GLT27L
This exceedingly fine sculpture depicting a pair of fighting sparrows was originally conceived for exhibition at the Paris Salon of 1867, the present model cast during the fourth quarter of the 19th century. A work that showcases Moigniez's superior handling of birds perhaps better than any other model, this sculpture is notable for the superior finishing work that results in a nearly photographic level of realism. The sculpture is chased and filed with such precision, leaving the viewer to wonder just how many hours the foundry would have to spend to productively cast and complete such a masterpiece. Every aspect of each sparrow's body is perfectly rendered, every feather crisply chased both above and below the wings. The claws remain sharp enough to cut, the beaks both crisp and thin.
Beyond the technical accomplishment, the subject is magnetic. The intensity of the scene is modeled in a way that allows the viewer to appreciate a momentary glimpse at these fast moving birds. The naturalistic base is handsomely modeled with vines and foliage, a clump of crushed grasses and rocky ground - Moigniez showed care in making the base simple enough as to not detract from the scene, as has been a criticism in some of his other bird groups where the foliage overtakes the sculpture.
Signed "J. Moigniez" along the left side of the base, the work is finished in a complex brown patina with traces of silver throughout.
Measurements: 7 1/2" H x 6" W x 4 1/8" D
Condition Report:
Some patina wear around edges of base. Patina appears to be as originally intended with hints of silvered patina over a brown - this does not appear to be the result of handling wear but rather the original patina as conceived.