Jacques-Auguste Fauginet

Overall the condition of the bronze is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is a solid broadly uniform grey patina on the bronze. The sculpture is cast in sections and joints are visible including an horizontal joint at the back. The top of the spear and a piece of foliage at the front are a little loose. There is minor greening and some white residues to some crevices.
"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."

Fauginet was at the forefront of Romantic sculpture. He presented groups of this subject in plaster and bronze at the Salon of 1836, around the same time that Barye designed his famous surtout-de-table for the Duc d'Orleans. The juxtaposition of man and animal in a tense moment is typical of the movement.

RELATED LITERATURE
D. Alcouffe, A. Dion-Tenenbaum, P. Ennès (eds.), Une âge d'or des arts décoratifs 1814-1848, exh. cat. Galeries nationales du Grand Palais, Paris, 1991, pp. 307-308