Late 19th century Family Of Merino Sheep Jules Moigniez - This Highly Detailed Bronze By Animal Sculptor Jules Moigniez (French, 1835-1894) Was First Exhibited At The 1861 Salon In Paris. Not Only Has The Sculptor Created An Attractive, Well-Balanced Family Group But He Has Detailed Every Curl Of The Wool And Modelled An Almost Barye-Like Series Of Folds In The Loose Skin And Wool Of The Necks. The Modelling Of The Foliage Is Excellent, A Moigniez Trademark. - In Common With The Accepted Ideas Of The Period, Moigniez Has Put One Of The Sheep, In This Case The Proud Ram, With His Front Feet On A Rock, Giving It Added Height And Perspective, And Allowing The Viewer'S Attention To Be Drawn In A Slightly Asymmetrical Triangle. - Family Of Merino Sheep Was Cast In France In The 19Th Century, Most Likely In The Highly Regarded Foundry Operated By The Artist's Father. The Sculpture Has An Aged Patina In Tones Of Browns. It Stands 11.5" High By 15.5 " Wide.

Jules Moigniez (28 May 1835 – 29 May 1894) was a French animalier sculptor who worked during the 19th century. His output was primarily cast in bronzeand he frequently exhibited his sculptures at the Paris Salon. He was best known for his bronzes depicting birds, although his skill and versatility enabled him to produce quality horse sculptures (primarily racehorses), dog sculptures and scenes. His bird sculptures were among the finest ever created in his time.