Large plaster cast 'Jaguar Devouring a Hare'

An early 20th century large plaster cast from the bronze figure 'Jaguar devouring a hare' of superb quality, after Barye - ADDITIONAL IMAGES CAN BE VIEWED BELOW:

This plaster cast is a large and impressive piece and this this particular subject was one of three of his largest works he produced.

The original work was produced by Barye both in plaster and bronze and in 1850 he exhibited several works including the original plaster cast of the 'Jaguar devouring a hare'.

This piece, although in plaster has the appearance of a bronze with green patination and is a very good example.

There are a few areas that have evidence of being re-touched over the years but the piece is in very good condition overall. 

Antoine Louis Barye (1795 - 1875) exhibited at many exhibitions over the years gaining both Royal and State commissions and also had his own foundry allowing him to employ other fine craftsmen.     

Most of his works were of animals and often depicted them in a realistic manner basing most of his sculptures on wild animals and took influence from the Jardin des Plantes where he could study them.  

He also faced financial problems during his career and declared bankruptcy after the 1848 Revolution. At this stage he was appointed 'Director of Casts & Models' at The Louvre until 1850. He also lost his inventory of casts and it was not until 10 years later that he was able to buy these back. 

Barye received many honours for his work later in his life including being named as the first President of the Central Union of Beaux Arts and was also appointed a member of the Institute of France as well as many other appointments.

This cast does have a signature of 'AL Barye' but there is no evidence of any other stamps or marks, some were produced by The Louvre and also by the Barbedienne foundry.

This piece is in very good condition and can go straight into a home.