Lot 120: Arthur Marie Gabriel Comte Du Passage, French (1838-1909) A bronze model of two hounds hunting a rat

one hound looking into the trap, the other standing behind, on a grassy naturalistic oval base, signed Cte du passage, 14cm high x 25.5cm wide

Born to a noble family Arthur Marie began his career as a second lieutenant in the 9e carabiniers at Maubeuge. He soon found he had an exceptional artistic talent and first exhibited at the Salon in 1865. Following his success at the Salon he decided to give up his military career and concentrate solely on his art. He was fortunate enough to study under two of the most important animalier sculptors of the day, Mêne and Barye, and like Mêne specialised in equestrian models, hunting scenes and lifelike depictions of dogs, of which the present bronze is typical.