The first half of the twentieth century marked the heyday of animal sculpture throughout Europe. This comprehensive survey showcases the work of forty artists at the forefront of the 'Les Animaliers' movement between 1900 and 1950. Drawing on the rich archive of the Sladmore Gallery, with over 350 colour photographs, individual biographies and two informative essays, this book contains a wealth of information for both established collectors and those new to the subject. It is a companion volume to Jane Horswell's pioneering Bronze Sculpture of Les Animaliers, which covered the nineteenth century and was published over 50 years ago.
Rapid modernisation from the beginning of the twentieth century and the opening up of the natural world were both reflected in the art of the time. Today, as appreciation for our disappearing natural world increases, the period of sculpture featured in this publication resonates even more deeply.