Exceptional 19th-Century French Bronze “Le Cerf” by Antoine-Louis Barye – Romantic Animal Sculpture, Second Empire, Frères Paris

This exceptional French bronze sculpture “Le Cerf” is a masterpiece by Antoine-Louis Barye (1795–1875), the undisputed master of Romantic animal sculpture in 19th-century France.

The sculpture depicts a majestic stag in motion, with its head raised during the rut. It conveys strength, dynamism, and emotional intensity. The refined anatomical modelling, expressive antlers, and richly textured surface are characteristic of Barye’s most accomplished and sought-after works, in which tension and naturalism are central.

This bronze was published and cast during the Second French Empire (Deuxième Empire) by Susse Frères, Paris, as confirmed by the clearly legible signature “Susse Frères Éditeurs Paris”. Susse Frères was a leading Parisian bronze foundry, active from approximately 1830 to 1900, and renowned for producing high-quality animal sculptures, notably after models by Antoine-Louis Barye.

The sculpture retains a deep, original dark patina and rests on a naturalistic oval base that enhances its realism and sculptural presence.

Highly prized by collectors and represented in major museum collections worldwide, Barye’s bronzes rank among the absolute highlights of French Romantic sculpture and 19th-century Parisian bronze craftsmanship.

Dimensions:
34 cm Length 13.39 Inch
49 cm Height 19.29 Inch
20.4 cm Width 8.03 Inch