Animalier

Animalier art refers to a type of art that focuses on the representation of animals, particularly in sculpture and painting. This genre became particularly popular in the 19th century and was often associated with the French Romantic movement.

Franz Bergman, Animalier, Austrian, 19th-century bronze horse.
Franz Bergman, Austrian, 19th-century bronze horse.

In the 19th century, animalier subjects were a popular theme in fine art and sculpture. Many artists were inspired by the natural world and sought to capture the beauty and majesty of animals in their work. Animalier sculptures were particularly popular during this time, with artists such as Antoine-Louis Barye, Pierre-Jules Mêne, and Emmanuel Frémiet producing exquisite sculptures of a wide range of animals, from horses and dogs to lions and elephants.

These sculptures were often incredibly detailed, with the artists carefully studying the anatomy and movement of the animals they were portraying. Many animalier sculptures were also cast in bronze, which allowed for intricate details and textures to be captured.

In addition to sculpture, animalier subjects were also popular in painting. Artists such as Rosa Bonheur, Jean-Baptiste Huet, and George Stubbs painted stunning depictions of animals, often set against dramatic landscapes or in intimate domestic scenes.

Overall, animalier art in the 19th century was a celebration of the natural world and the beauty of the animal kingdom. These artworks continue to be admired and appreciated today for their exquisite craftsmanship and their ability to capture the essence of the animals they portray.