Christophe Fratin, The Bear Fight, 19th Century, Bronze

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Christophe Fratin (1801–1864) "The Bear Fight"
Bronze with a golden-brown patina
Dimensions: 4 x 5 x 8 cm

Christophe Fratin … Read more Christophe Fratin (1801–1864) "The Bear Fight"
Bronze with a golden-brown patina
Dimensions: 4 x 5 x 8 cm

Christophe Fratin was born on January 1, 1801, in Metz. His father's profession as a taxidermist undoubtedly had a profound influence on the artist, as both strived to go beyond anatomical reproduction to imbue their work with feeling and soul. In the 1830s and 1840s, his success was such that he collaborated with other artists, such as Barye, Pradier, and Feuchère, on the creation of a significant princely centerpiece for the Duke of Orléans, eldest son of Louis Philippe. He also created the lions that adorn a pediment of the Château de Dampierre for the Duke of Luynes. His career was international, as he worked in England and some of his works can be found in Russia, notably in the former Tsar's Park in Saint Petersburg. One of his major works was the hunting scene pediment in the Louvre, created during the reign of Napoleon III. Along with Mène and Barye, Fratin undoubtedly belongs to the trio of the finest sculptors of the 19th century, but with a distinctive "fantastic," "comic," or "original" style that gives him a unique and prominent place among the animal sculptors of that era.

Provenance: - Private collection, Southern France
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