A Family of Foxes

Art Historical Context

**A Family of Foxes** by Pierre-Jules Mêne, modeled in 1847, is a delightful bronze sculpture measuring 17.1 × 30.5 × 16.5 cm, now housed in the National Gallery of Art's collection, generously gifted by Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon. This intimate table-top piece captures a vixen and her kits in a tender, naturalistic grouping, showcasing Mêne's mastery as a leading French *animalier* sculptor of the 19th century. Working in the Romantic era's spirit, he blended realism with poetic vitality, producing bronzes that appealed to affluent collectors fond of hunting and country life. Mêne's technique shines in the lost-wax casting process, which allowed for exquisite detailing—the soft fur textures, alert ears, and playful poses rendered with lifelike precision. Founded his own Paris foundry in 1841, he elevated animal sculpture from mere decoration to fine art, influencing generations. This work reflects mid-19th-century France's fascination with wildlife, evoking the wild beauty of the French countryside amid industrialization. Visitors will adore its charm: a snapshot of maternal affection in the animal world, perfect for contemplation on a gallery pedestal. A testament to Mêne's enduring legacy, it invites us to pause and appreciate nature's quiet dramas. (198 words)