Isidore-Jules Bonheur

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good. There is some wear to the surface consistent with age. The joints at the fence and the horse's hoofs are visible and slightly loose, mainly because a nut is missing from the joint at the rear left hoof. There is some minor scratching to the surface particularly at the horse's right shoulder and where the reigns have rubbed against the horse's neck. There are some slight nicks to the jockey's visor and the horse's right ear. A small section of the reign under the horse's neck has come off at the joint and the jockey's spurs are missing.
"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 thrilling moment captured in this model perfectly sums up Bonheur's acute power of observation, revealing his love of horses and his ability to translate his feel for the equestrian subject into sculpture. The horse is shown here while closely but confidently clearing a brushwood fence during a steeplechase. The jockey comes slightly off his seat as he braces himself for the jump, keeping his whip raised to urge his companion on. In other models (such as the following lot) Bonheur combined the present group with one or two other steeplechasers to create more complex groups. As a single rider however, attention focusses on the intense concentration of the jockey and the straining horse. Veins, muscles and the hoof prints of earlier passes and competitors all help to capture the heat of the race.