Isidore-Jules Bonheur

Overall the condition of the silvered bronze is very good with some dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few small areas where the silver surface has worn away, including to the edges of the moulded base. There is some evidence of oxidization, including to the left player's club. There are a number of visible original casting joints, including where the hooves meet the ground. The joints at the hooves of the left horse are stable but slightly open and the horse is slightly loose from the base. There are a few small areas of greening and some remnants of polish to the surface. There is a small hole in the underside of the right horse.
"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."

Isidore-Jules Bonheur came from an exceptional family of artists. He first trained under his painter father, Raymond Bonheur, before developing a talent for modelling. As an animalier he followed in the footsteps of his celebrated older sister Rosa Bonheur who was an internationally famous artist and personality. Isidore's brother Auguste was a painter. In 1848, Isidore, Rosa, Auguste and their father Raymond all exhibited at the Paris Salon. Isidore's second sister Juliette also had an impact on the family's artistic fortunes when she married the bronze founder and sculptor Hippolyte Peyrol who went on to cast many of Isidore's and Rosa's models.

Both Isidore and his sister Rosa were horse-mad and Isidore's most celebrated models are all equine subjects. His racing subjects are well-known and were cast in large editions. The present very fine polo group is rare both for its subject and the casting in silvered bronze.