Val D’Osne Bronzed Pointer Created by Henri Alfred Marie Jacquemart

Late 19th Century

Signed A.J. and stamped VAL D’OSNE

Measurements: height 31” (79cm); width: 12 ¾” (32.5cm); length 24 ½” (62.5cm)

This attractive bronzed cast-iron sculpture of a pointer from the celebrated Fonderies d'Art du Val d'Osne, was designed by famed Parisian sculptor Henri Alfred Marie Jacquemart. Jacquemart was one of the leading figures of the Animalier movement, centred in France with an emphasis on the realistic and dynamic depiction of animals. This particular sculpture clearly demonstrates the artist’s exceptional skill at capturing a subject’s, anatomy, expression and distinct personality.

A selection of Jacquemart’s renowned works include the Four Sphinxes at La Fontaine du Palmier, Paris ,1858 and the Viceroy Mohammed Ali, Alexandria, 1872.

French cast-iron sculptures such as this one were historically preferred over bronze for outdoor decorations due to their resistance to more extreme weather conditions. Similar statues cast by Val d'Osne can be found decorating public buildings and parks worldwide, and particularly in the United States and France. 

Established in 1835 by the inventor of ornamental cast iron, Jean Pierre Victor André, the Fonderies d'Art du Val d'Osne were world renowned for their remarkable architectural designs and decorative cast iron works of art for nearly 150 years. Beginning in 1851, the firm participated in numerous international exhibitions, earning much critical acclaim throughout the years. Celebrated sculptors including, Henri-Alfred-Marie Jacquemart, Mathurin Moreau, Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse, and James Pradier designed numerous works exclusively for the famed firm, cementing their place among the finest in the industry. While today the works of the Fonderies d'Art du Val d'Osne can be seen in important collections worldwide, the most visible pieces cast by the firm are the distinctive Art Nouveau Parisian subway entrances designed by Hector Guimard. 

£9500