Pheasant & Stoat - Bronze by Jules Moigniez

Pheasant and Stoat

A beautiful original French bronze by Jules Moigniez, featuring a large male pheasant clambering upon a rocky outcrop, startled by a stoat hidden within the foliage. This sculpture is cast in very fine detail, with the pheasant's feathers clearly visible, as well as its sharp claws and spurs above the foot. The stoat is subtly positioned, visible when viewed from the side of the piece. The piece displays a particularly attractive patina which highlights the detail of the diorama. 

The bronze is signed on the front left of a rock face: "J. Moigniez" (Jules Moigniez). Dating to the late 19th century, this beautiful work was created around 1870, during the Belle Époque period.

About Jules Moigniez (1835-1894)

Born in Senlis, Oise, France, on May 28, 1835, Jules Moigniez was the son of a metal gilder.

He studied under Paul Comoléra, a renowned animal sculptor, particularly specializing in birds.

Moigniez's father purchased a foundry specifically to cast his son's sculptures, giving him a unique advantage in production by reducing costs and enhancing productivity.

Over his career, he became known for his detailed animal sculptures, particularly birds, which earned him a reputation as one of the finest bird sculptors of his time.

He exhibited thirty works at the Salon from 1855 to 1892, both in plaster and bronze, often featuring gildings and silver patinas.

Belle Époque

The Belle Époque period (1870s to 1914) is known for its association with Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements in France, Belgium, and Europe. This era ended with the outbreak of World War I.