The partridges in this pair are formed of patinated bronze. Each bronze partridge stands on a leaf-strewn base, which has been cast to render realistically formed rocks and shrubbery, all of which serve to indicate that the partridge resides in its natural environment. The partridges are active: their movement is perceptible as each strides forward. One partridge looks downwards, while the other looks towards the sky while crowing.
Jules Moigniez, one of the most celebrated and collected sculptors of animals active during the 19th Century, has created beautifully cast birds. In addition, Moigniez is adept at rendering detailed, sumptuous patinas, as is evident with this pair.
Each sculpture is signed on its base ‘J. Moigniez.’