Little is known of this talented animal sculptor, who worked during the early part of the twentieth century. This particular group is beautifully observed and full of character. There is clearly an influence of the great animal sculptor Rembrandt Bugatti whose work was infused with the observed characteristics and idiosyncrasies of the animal kingdom.
Lovegrove had four models cast by the Susse Freres foundry from 1924, which included the present piece and a lively, equally attractive cast entitled Tigre aux antilopes.
This bronze has been cast using the 'cire perdue' or 'lost wax' technique by the Susse Freres foundry. This has captured all of the subtle and passionate modelling of the artist's hand, right down to thumb and fingerprints.
Literature
Pierre Cadet, Susse Freres, 150 Years of Sculpture, Susse Freres, Paris, 1992, p.75
