PIERRE JULES MENE (FRENCH, 1810-79) BRONZE SCULPTURE GROUP OF HOUNDS WITH FOX AT BAY
Signed along base "P.J. MENE 1849"
Item #  502PLA14W

An aggressive and difficult subject, particularly for Méne with his tendency for the serene and nostalgic in his modeling of groups, this fascinating hunt scene depicts a pair of hounds holding a fox at bay in an overgrown forest hollow.  The sheer excellence of the cast is evident, each animal chiseled and chased into such perfect realism that even their teeth remain sharp and claws well defined.  The bodies completely own the tension of the moment.  A complex original patina brings the scene to life, mixing a deeper and more nearly black painted patina in the base and trunk with the red oxide, greens and browns of the scene.  

References and Literature:

• Animals in Bronze, Christopher Payne, p. 205 (present model pictured and discussed)

Measurements:  10 1/2" H x 19 1/8" W x 10 1/2" D

Condition Report:
Patina wear throughout, as seen in the detailed slideshow photographs: haunches and legs of dogs, some painted patina losses to the base with accompanying verdigris, scratch along the backs of both dogs, patina loss around the molded edge of the base, etc. Overall in an outstanding state of preservation.