Early 20th century bronze horse sculpture, after Pierre Mene’s L’Accolade. 1908-1939

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Today we have a large early 20th century bronze sculpture after Pierre Mene’s acclaimed L’Accolade. It depicts two Arabian horses courting, with the stallion nuzzling the mare’s neck. We believe ours was likely cast during the Susse Freres period circa 1908-1939, as overall the detail of the horses is well-captured. Unfortunately however the signature is missing, as well as two screws having been replaced over the years. Considering that original Mene sculptures are priced between 13-23 thousand AUD, this piece evokes neo-classical French style at an excellent entry point.

This sculpture was originally titled Tachiani et Nedjébé, chevaux arabes and was first exhibited in 1852. It was later titled L'Accolade. and exhibited again in bronze in 1853; Mêne would later be awarded a medal at the Exposition Universelle of 1855 for his submission of L'Accolade. Indeed L’Accolade met with such success that he would later adapted the horses and issue them as individual sculptures.

L'Accolade was initially cast in Mêne's personal foundry from 1851 through 1879, subsequently being cast in the Mêne-Cain foundry established with his son-in-law Auguste Cain through 1908. Some casts during this period were also executed in collaboration with the Barbedienne foundry.

Models by Barbedienne were produced in larger dimensions, while models by the Mêne-Cain foundry were offered in their 1901 catalogue titled Groupe chevaux arabes no. 1. Susse Freres acquired the rights to produce the model and continued to cast the very popular sculpture (dimensions of 35 cm x 54 cm x 23 cm) between 1908-1939.

Price is marked at AUD$4800.
Measurements: 35 cm x 54 cm x 23 cm.

Weight of 20kg.
Very good vintage, near or possibly antique condition. Screw replacements to two areas of base as previously mentioned. Excellent patination.