Lot 144: Bronze Lioness & Cubs Sculpture, Auguste Cain

Auguste Nicholas Cain (France, 1821-1894) large bronze sculpture depicting a lioness presenting her prey, a dead peacock, to her cubs on a rocky naturalistic base. Signed on the base “A.  Cain”. Additionally inscribed with the Susse Freres Paris foundry mark on the back side of the base. 23 1/2 in. H x 40 in. L x 12 1/2 in. D. Biography: Auguste Cain was a noted French “Animaliers” sculptor- one of a group of late 18th and 19th century artists who focused on lifelike depictions of animals, often in their native environments. Cain studied animal anatomy at the Jardin des Plantes in Paris and began exhibiting at the Paris Salon in 1846. He exhibited 38 models at the Salon over the years and received official commissions for monumental animal sculptures in several Parisian gardens. In 1879 he assumed management of the PJ Mene foundry, which had belonged to his father in law. 

PROVENANCE: The collection of Mr. and Mrs. David Allen, Springfield, Tennessee.

CONDITION: Overall good condition. A few very minute scattered abrasions and a couple of white, unknown minute spots.