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This roughly 5' long bronze lion was purchased in an antique shop. The owner stated he purchased from an estate where it rested under the pine trees for years.
Only after I purchased it, did I notice the signature, Barye and the number next to it, which appears to be 183. Looking online for Barye bronze lion, I found the wikipedia page for A. Barye, who was the premier animal sculpter in France in the 1800s. He began his career as apprentice to Napoleon's goldsmith and his last position was Director of Drawings at the Louvre in Paris. I also found a modern day replica at considerable cost (more than I paid for this one), but without a signature. When I emailed this company to inquire about their replica, the person responding said that an original Barye bronze lion of this size would be worth well over $100,000.
Since there appears to be the number 183 after the signature, I'm guessing this was some limited edition reproduction, but unsure.
It is really beautiful, and I will enjoy it either way, but very interested in anything about the history of this piece and the true value.
Thanks.
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