Important Bronze “the Draft Horse” By T. Gechter – 1841

Old bronze proof with medal patina representing a harnessed draft horse. The signature of Théodore Gechter is present on the terrace and dated 1841. This superb sculpture with an equestrian effigy is notable for its high quality, the finesse of the carving, and the quantity of details and ornaments. The horse seems to come to life thanks to its fiery movements, characteristic of this romantic sculptor who was particularly fond of modeling horses. The work rests on a large black marble base. Jean-François-Théodore Gechter was a French sculptor born in Paris on December 15, 1792 and died on December 11, 1844. Jean-François-Théodore Gechter was a student of the sculptor François Bosio and the painter Antoine-Jean Gros at the École des beaux Paris arts. He finally opted for sculpture. He exhibited at the Salon from 1824 to 1840. His Combat de Charles Martel, a commission from the Ministry of Commerce, was presented there in 1833 and in 1834 he received a medal for his Battle of Aboukir. He specializes in small bronze sculptures presenting elaborately costumed characters in action. However, between 1833 and 1836, he sculpted the large bas-relief of The Battle of Austerlitz at the top of the west pillar of the Arc de Triomphe of the Star. This work took a toll on his health but earned him the Legion of Honor in 1837. He still participated in the sculptures of the Place de la Concorde and the Madeleine church. From 1841, he devoted himself to publishing his small bronzes representing historical or animal subjects. He set up his foundry workshop at 63 quai de Valmy and organized their sale by placing them in galleries in Paris, London, Berlin or Dresden. He died of tuberculosis in 1844. ******** Period: 1841 Excellent condition. Additional photos available by clicking on the following link: https://www.antiquites-lecomte.com/boutique/bronzes/important-bronze-le-cheval-de-trait-de-theodore-gechter-1841 Shipping possible with careful packaging and suitable protection Dimensions: Height: 38 cm Width: 37 cm Depth: 19 cm Weight: 14.6 kg Ref: 982U