Eagle Holding a Heron (second version)

Original model n.d., first edition c. 1857; this cast n.d.

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Antoine-Louis Barye and Barbedienne

Eagle Holding a Heron (second version)

Artist: Antoine-Louis Barye
Foundry: Barbedienne

Eagle Holding a Heron (second version)

Original model n.d., first edition c. 1857; this cast n.d.

Physical Qualities Bronze, 12 1/2 x 13 x 9 in. (31.8 x 33 x 22.9 cm.)

Credit Line The George A. Lucas Collection, purchased with funds from the State of Maryland, Laurence and Stella Bendann Fund, and contributions from individuals, foundations, and corporations throughout the Baltimore community

Object Number 1996.46.57

In a number of his bronzes, Barye represented a variety of large birds, among them the eagle, shown here as a fierce predator. Perched on a rocky crag with wings extended, the bird pauses in triumph over its kill. The limp from of the heron follows the contours of the rugged terrain, its elegant body twisted in the contortions of death. Seldom is the contrast in nature between the living and dead so eloquently presented.

The Baltimore Museum of Art by purchase, 1996; from Maryland Institute, College of Art, Baltimore, by gift 1910; from Henry Walters, Baltimore, by bequest 1909; from George Aloysius Lucas, Paris

Memorial Art Gallery of the University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, "Les Animaliers: Antoine Barye and His Followers", January 17-February 23, 1975.

The Baltimore Museum of Art, "Barye: Contrasting Viewpoints", August 12-September 28, 1975.

The Baltimore Museum of Art, "The George A. Lucas Collection: Maryland's Treasure", circulated to Washington County Museum of Fine Arts, Hagerstown, July 26-September 27, 1998.

Inscribed: Signed on base: 'A.L. BARYE'. Bottom of base in yellow paint: 'Lucas' (underined). Bottom of base in white ink; a BMA accession number: '1996.46.57'.