Jules Moigniez French, 1835-1894

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good with minor wear to the patina consistent with age and handling. There is a slightly visible casting joint at the top of the tail.
"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."

Moigniez studied under the animalier sculptor Paul Comoléra. He made his exhibition debut at the Paris Exposition Universelle in 1855 with A Pointer stopping at a pheasant and continued to exhibit regularly at the annual Salon for almost forty years. His models particularly appealed to the British market and it has been claimed that more than half his production was sold across the channel. Certainly he exhibited to acclaim in England, notably at the 1862 International Exhibition. From 1857, the manufacture of Moigniez considerable output was overseen by his father who set up a foundry specifically to cast his son's models. This resulted in a consistently high standard of casting in contemporary editions and the common absence of foundry marks.

RELATED LITERATURE
Horswell, pp. 217 & 246; Payne, pp. 320 & 414, no H124; Lami, vol.III, pp. 459-461