Antoine-Louis Barye

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good. There is some minor wear and dirt consistent with age. The lion was cast separately from its base: joints are slightly visible around the paws.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The present bronze Lion qui Marche was cast in Barye's own workshop. The model maintains the freshness and detail typical of an edition close to the master model, now lost. The naturalistic base, which adds liveliness to the composition, is exceedingly rare. The model, with this rough terrasse, originated between 1841 and 1846, as an intermediary stage between the 1841 sketch and the definitive version.

The original Lion was modelled by Barye around 1840 together with a pendant, the Tigre qui Marche. Both were included in the 1844 catalogue issued by the Besse et Cie firm. The description mentions the pure power and natural beauty of Barye's Lion, which was received with praise. The earthy realism of Barye's Lion stood in great contrast to the Neoclassical depictions of lions as decoration subordinate to larger compositions. The popularity of the model would never abate. From the year after Barye's death through to the mid-twentieth century the Barbedienne foundry continued to cast it.

RELATED LITERATURE
Poletti & Richarme (2000), pp. 187-9, no. A61