catalog text
BRONZE MODEL "FAMILLE DE CERFS" BY CHRISTOPHE FRATIN (FRENCH, 1801-1864)
Sand-cast circa 1850; signed "FRATIN" in naturalistic base, foundry mark to edge "De Braux Fr."
Item # 001OPM22U
A finely executed lifetime cast depicting a Family of Deer, the work is immediately recognizable as the product of Fratin's vivid imagination. The length of each deer's body in this peaceful group is beautifully textured and chaotic, Fratin's vigorous knife in the original wax beautifully captured in the early casting of this bronze. The edge of the base is signed "De Braux Fr." for Debraux D'Anglure, one of a handful of Parisian foundries Fratin is recorded to have worked with during his lifetime and an early founder for Barye's work as well.
The model captures a large stag standing watch over his family, the mother watchful but at rest while the fawn prances about under her father's legs. The base is simple with a naturalistic representation of the forest floor in roots, stones and raised limbs of dead trees throughout, the corner signed FRATIN.
Literature & Further Reading:
- The Founders and Editors of the Barye Bronzes, J.G. Reinis, p. 81-83 [discussion of Debraux D'Anglure foundry]
- Doyle, New York, Sale 07FD02, Lot 3005, 28 Feb 2007, "Elk Family" cast by Debraux Fr., achieved $ 3600 USD
Measurements: 10 3/4" H x 4" D x 10 3/8" W
Condition Report:
Minor rubbed wear to patina from handling along face and crook of bent foreleg of resting doe. Fawn feet tapped for new posts/nuts. In exceptional presentation-ready condition.