Sculpture of Les Animaliers 1900–1950

• The first truly comprehensive study of animal sculpture throughout Europe in the period between 1900 and 1950
• Showcases the work of forty artists at the forefront of the ‘Les Animaliers’ movement
• Draws on the rich archive of the Sladmore Gallery, with over 350 colour photographs, individual biographies and two informative essays, this book contains a wealth of information for both established collectors and those new to the subject

The first half of the twentieth century marked the heyday of animal sculpture throughout Europe. This first truly comprehensive survey showcases the work of forty artists at the forefront of the ‘Les Animaliers’ movement between 1900 and 1950. Drawing on the rich archive of the Sladmore Gallery, with over 350 colour photographs, individual biographies and two informative essays, this book contains a wealth of information for both established collectors and those new to the subject. It is a companion volume to Jane Horswell’s pioneering ‘Bronze Sculpture of Les Animaliers’, which covered the nineteenth century and was published over 50 years ago.

Rapid modernisation from the beginning of the twentieth century and the opening up of the natural world were both reflected in the art of the time. Today, as appreciation for our disappearing natural world increases, the period of sculpture in this publication resonates even more deeply.

Edward Horswell is a major authority on bronze sculpture of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. He has collaborated on many major international museum exhibitions and regularly advises institutions, vetting committees and authorities on matters of authenticity and value. Today, under his direction, the Sladmore Gallery has expanded its twentieth-century department to include not just the work of Rembrandt Bugatti and ‘Les Animaliers’, but also other modern masters such as Degas, Giacometti, Maillol, Picasso and Rodin.