Christophe Fratin signed antique silvered & gilt bronze box with deer (Animalier, 19th century)

Description

Rare antique box by the famous French sculptor Christophe Fratin (1801-1864), signed and exceptionally finely executed.

Origin & meaning
This silver-plated and gilt bronze case is topped by a powerfully modelled deer, signed FRATIN. Christophe Fratin was a pioneer of French Animalier art and a contemporary of Barye. His works are sought after by collectors and museums worldwide. The relief shows hunting scenes in high relief, with animal heads on the corners and ram's head appliques on the short sides. Inside, the box is lined with red fabric, emphasising the grandeur of the 19th century.

Dimensions & condition
The box measures 23 cm high × 21 cm wide. Condition: key missing, light wear and oxidation appropriate to age, otherwise solid and intact. Fratin's signature is clearly legible, which greatly increases the collector's value.

Origin
Auction house Peerdeman, Utrecht (2023).