Hippolyte-Alexandre-Julien Moulin

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good with some minor wear to the patina consistent with age and some surface dirt.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Moulin's portrait of Antoine-Louis Barye was designed by to crown the sculptor's tomb at the Père-Lachaise cemetery in Paris, where it remains today. The present cast is the only other large bronze cast recorded, a smaller unsigned version is at the Walters Art Gallery in Baltimore. The model was exhibited at the Salon of 1876, where Barye was commemmorated a year after his death. Because it was to function as a tomb effigy the likeness of Barye is severe, serene and real. The truncation of the bronze, showing the subject's bare chest, is reminiscent of centuries of commemorative portrait busts. Both the quality of the bust and the inscription, A mon maître vénère, show that Moulin was indebted to his master despite his only brief stay at the famous animalier's workshop.

Because of his humble background and lack of financial backing Moulin was only able to enrol at the École des Beaux-Arts for one year. He followed this training with two short apprenticeships under Auguste Ottin and Antoine-Louis Barye. His first success came in 1864 when he exhibited his bronze Lucky find at Pompeii at the Salon. The popular model became much sought-after and Moulin's reputation was firmly established.

RELATED LITERATURE
P. Fusco & H. Janson, The Romantics to Rodin, ex. cat. Los Angeles County Musuem of Art, Los Angeles, 1980, p. 307-309, no. 171