Paul Gayrard. Rare 19th Century Bronze Figure. "Monkey Rider" with Marble Base

Paul Joseph Raymond Gayrard (1807 - 1855). A Superb Rare 19th Century French Patinated Bronze Figure "Monkey Rider". Depicting a monkey riding a racehorse being startled by a dog.Height 13 cms. Width 15 cms. Signed "Gayrard" , with Foundry Inscription "Boyer ". Mounted on a marble base. This piece was cast in 1846 and is in superb pristine condition. The intricacy of the sculpting is extraordinary. Paul Gayrard studied at an early age under his sculptor/engraver father Raymond Gayrard. He first exhibited at the Paris Salon in 1827 and continued to submit works throughout his lifetime winning a Second Class Medal in 1834 and a First Class Medal in 1846 for "The Monkey Steeplechase". His last recorded exhibit was in 1855. He was very successful among the more wealthy of French high society and executed many busts of the notables of the day but he also had a considerable talent for animal modelling. His known bronze animal models date from the years 1846 until 1848. In the middle of the 19th Century there was a surge in bronze sculptures of animals doing human tasks. Christophe Fratin created his humanized bears being lamp lighters, dentists and even reading books. Paul Gayrard created his famous Monkey bronzes. The novelty of humanized animals soon wore off and when Darwin's work "Origin of Species" was published in 1859 people looked on these humorous bronzes in a different light and many pieces were destroyed. Consequently these very unusual bronze subjects are now rare and almost impossible to locate today

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We are very happy to discuss with clients their needs and to provide a sourcing service. We can advise on the acquisition of pieces in all areas of the fine and decorative arts, assisting clients in their search for individual pieces or for a particular item. If you have queries regarding this or any intended purchase please contact us. All items can be delivered either by postal service or by trusted and fully insured couriers; we use both for the UK market and for overseas delivery. Please inquire by email or phone to obtain a quote for delivery options. Items are described as Excellent - A1 Condition no faults, Very Good - very good condition with only very minor cosmetic issues if atall and consistent with age, Good - in good overall condition with some ageing, marks and wear consistent with age.