19th Century French Spelter Bull Composition on Wood Base Signed Charles Valton

Details

Description

This striking 19th-century French animalier sculpture depicts a powerful standing bull, cast in spelter and mounted on a molded wooden … Read more This striking 19th-century French animalier sculpture depicts a powerful standing bull, cast in spelter and mounted on a molded wooden base. Signed Charles Valton (1851–1918), the piece exemplifies the sculptor’s keen eye for anatomical accuracy and expressive modeling, hallmarks of the École des Beaux-Arts tradition and the French naturalist movement.
A presentation plaque affixed to the base reads:
“Concours du Comice Agricole de Feurs – 1892 – Prix d’Honneur offert par le Marquis de Poncins”
This translates to: “Agricultural Committee Competition of Feurs – 1892 – Honor Prize offered by the Marquis de Poncins.”
The plaque indicates the sculpture was awarded as a prestigious prize at a regional agricultural fair in Feurs, underscoring both its symbolic and artistic value.
Rendered with bold musculature, upright posture, and finely textured surface detail, the bull conveys both strength and stoic presence. The original patinated finish remains rich and well-preserved, with subtle highlights that catch the light and accentuate its form. The shaped hardwood base enhances the presentation with warmth and contrast against the bronze-toned surface.
Charles Valton was one of France’s foremost animal sculptors, exhibiting more than seventy works at the Paris Salon between 1868 and 1914. A student of Antoine-Louis Barye and Emmanuel Frémiet, Valton received numerous honors during his career, culminating in his appointment as Chevalier of the Légion d’Honneur in 1906.
Measuring 14 inches wide by 7 inches deep and 11 inches high, this decorative bull sculpture is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use. A rare and refined example of French animalier art, blending academic pedigree, rural symbolism, and historical provenance, perfect for a study, library, or country estate. See less