Georges GUYOT (1885-1972) - Lot 24

Georges GUYOT (1885-1972) Lioness on the prowl Sculpture in bronze with shaded brown patina Signed "Guyot" on the front of the terrace Foundry Susse fres ets Paris, circa 1935 H : 29 cm L : 52 cm Bibliography: - Galerie Dumonteil exhibition catalog, May-June 1990, "Georges-Lucien Guyot, 1885-1973 - Dessins et Sculptures", no. 17, page 4. Georges-Lucien Guyot is considered one of the great animal sculptors of the early 20th century. He freed himself from the influence of François Pompon and created a body of work of his own. In the 1930s, Pompon's success attracted a number of young followers who took pleasure in copying his style. Pompon admired Guyot's independence: "Only one artist interests me, Guyot. Because at least he doesn't do Pompon". This praise corresponds to the opinion of the critics, unanimous throughout Guyot's career. The present model illustrates the sculptor's naturalistic yet elegantly stylized approach to animal sculpture. What counts for Guyot is to render the animal's attitude as truthfully as its psychology. The fawn is captured at a precise moment, its two front legs bunched together, indicating an immediate stop, while its hind legs are walking. Its head is poised, slightly tense. Its erect ears and attentive expression indicate an animal on the hunt, coveting possible prey. The bevelled base is intended to take the statuary spirit away, replacing it with an effect of movement.