These are two very specific Arabian horses from Algeria , "Tachiani" for the male, and "Nedjibe" for the mare .
The horses are represented in movement , free , in full courtship .
The work is part of the realistic spirit of the school of nature which , from 1830 to the end of the century , was to experience an immense vogue in France and to which Pierre-Jules Mêne adhered with Rosa Bonheur , Jules Dupré and Brascassat , who were his friends .
Signature of the sculptor "P.J.MÊNE" in hollow , on the naturalist oval terrace , richly chiseled and decorated .
Antique edition sculpture , period second half of the 19th century , circa 1870 .
Very good state of conservation and patina .
Dimensions : 33.2 cm x 54 cm x 21 cm
Pierre - Jules Mêne (1810-1879)
Pierre - Jules Mêne , is a French sculptor , born March 25 , 1810 in Paris , city where he died on May 20 1879 .
He is considered to be one of the main representatives of animal sculpture in the 19th century .
Pierre - Jules Mêne produced many animal sculptures , particularly in vogue under the Second Empire, like Antoine-Louis Barye , Auguste Caïn , Pierre Louis Rouillard and , later , François Pompon .
P.J Mêne specialized in small bronzes, and did not produce work for public statuary .
His animal subjects have enjoyed great popular success .
Exclusive publisher of his works , the perfection of his productions is widely recognized .
He reveals himself , with Antoine-Louis Barye , as the one whose success has been the most constant , and this over the longest period .
Pierre - Jules Mêne appears to be one of the best wax practitioners of his time .