Isidore-Jules Bonheur French, 1827-1901

In this model Bonheur encapsulates the dignity and powerful stillness of the standing horse, in contrast to the frenzy and excitement of the race. The model has an intrinsic monumentality which is unusual in an animalier subject, with no dignitary astride the horse's back. With an arresting gaze it turns its head to confront something beyond the space of the sculpture.

Isidore-Jules Bonheur’s models have been enduringly popular with the racing fraternity on both sides of the channel. Both Isidore and his sister Rosa exhibited for a time at the Royal Academy. Presumably it was during this period, in the mid-1870's, that Isidore executed the equestrian silvered bronze of The Prince of Wales, later Edward VII.