This imposing bronze sculpture, featuring a bull, cow, and calf, stands on a red marble base. It offers an exceptionally realistic and sympathetic representation of the animals’ anatomy, spirit, and connection. The artist’s detailed chiseling and rich patina are reminiscent of the earlier French animalier sculptors such as Bonheur, Barye, and Mene.
 
This original, limited-edition piece is one of only two produced from a second lost-wax casting by the Antonio Frilli foundry and art studio in Florence, Italy. The model was acquired from the sculptor, and the piece was ultimately commissioned and purchased by the family of the current owner in 1968. The sculpture is signed and bears the foundry’s mark.
 
The sculptor, Giovanni Cappelletti, was born in Città di Castello in 1889 and trained at the Florence Academy of Fine Arts under Libero Andreotti. Specializing in animal subjects and fountain sculptures, he collaborated with prominent artists of his time. His works include elaborate crèche decorations. From 1939 to 1964, he worked with the Fonderia Artistica Ferdinando Marinelli as a sculptor and mold modeller before passing away in Florence in 1964.
 
Measurements:
Width: 50cm
Height: 23cm
Depth: 24cm