European Pair of Native Hunter Sculptures

This dramatic pair of European bronzed spelter sculptures dates to the late 18o0s, and depicts male and female Native hunters on horseback in an animated action. Styled after the celebrated 19th-century animalier works of Millet or Bayre, the pair combines spirited equestrian modeling with an extraordinary sense of movement and narrative.

Each composition captures horse and rider in the midst of action, accompanied by attacking animals beneath and alongside the horses. One rider twists dramatically in the saddle with an arm raised overhead, while the other reaches outward as the horse surges forward. The horses are particularly expressive, with powerful musculature, swept manes and tails, and sharply articulated poses that heighten the tension of each scene. Finely modeled details extend to the hunters’ garments, jewelry, weapons, and the textured coats of the animals.

Designed as companion pieces, the sculptures mirror one another beautifully without being identical, creating a lively and remarkably theatrical pair. Their dark bronzed finish further emphasizes the modeling and silhouettes of these complex figural groups.

7” High x 8” Wide x 3.5” Deep Each

Circa 1890