Superb French Animalier Bronze of a Standing Bull by Georges Malissard, Early 20th Century - 21¾"

A superb French Animalier bronze of a standing bull by Georges Malissard (1877-1942), dating to the early 20th century, likely the 1920s or 1930s. Exceptionally modelled, the sculpture captures the quiet power and imposing musculature of the animal with remarkable naturalism, from the broad shoulders and pronounced dewlap to the finely textured hide and alert, expressive gaze. Raised on its original integral rectangular base and signed G. Malissard, the bronze retains a rich, deep brown patina with warm highlights, showing only light rubbing to the highest points and minor surface wear consistent with age. 

Georges Malissard (1877-1942) was one of the leading French Animalier sculptors of the early 20th century, celebrated above all for his finely observed equestrian portraits. Encouraged by the renowned sculptor Emmanuel Frémiet, he exhibited regularly at the Salon des Artistes Français from 1908 and, following the First World War, received prestigious commissions for equestrian monuments to Marshals Foch, Haig, Pétain, and Lyautey. Although horses remained his principal subject, Malissard was also commissioned by the French government to model prize-winning livestock from the Salon de l'Agriculture, making finely executed bovine studies such as this a distinctive and comparatively uncommon part of his oeuvre. Awarded the title of Chevalier de la Légion d'Honneur in 1933, he is remembered as one of the foremost Animalier sculptors of his generation. 

This impressive bronze is both a masterfully executed work of sculpture and a heartfelt tribute to one of the most iconic animals of the French countryside. Beyond its remarkable anatomical accuracy and superb modelling, the bull's calm, expressive gaze conveys a quiet nobility that speaks to Malissard's deep respect and affection for his subject. Beautifully finished in a rich brown patina, it will appeal as much to lovers of fine Animalier sculpture as to those with a genuine appreciation for the natural world.