catalog text
BRONZE SCULPTURE OF "AIGLE" AFTER MODEL BY ANTOINE-LOUIS BARYE (FRENCH, 1796-1875)
Signed to base "A.L. BARYE", incised "F. Barbedienne Fondeur, Paris", cold-stamped "BRONZE"; posthumous casting circa early 20th century
Item # 103KJT21P
A powerful display of Barye's left-facing edition of "Eagle", it is a reduction developed first from Barye's studies for the French government in 1834. They were initially planning to surmount the Arc de Triomphe with an eagle with a wingspan of 75 feet, grasping in its talons the trophies of war. The project was abandoned out of concern it would offend France's past enemies, but Barye utilized the studies for several models of Eagles with raised wings. Barye utilized the studies to complete is "Aigle Tenant un Heron" and the eagle was also reduced and modeled alone over several base variations by Barbedienne.
The present model is beautifully finished in a complex green, black and brown surface patina that is positively silky to the touch with a brilliant glow throughout. It is situated over a square black marble base.
Measurements: 5 7/8" total height x 7 1/8" W x 3 1/4" D (base)
Condition Report:
Under UV examination both wing tips show evidence of repatination and some associated roughness to the extreme edges of the feathers; all surfaces carefully cleaned and sealed under beeswax; in fine presentation-ready overall condition.