Sculptures allow artists to depict all the wonder and beauty of animals in incredible detail. There are many different examples showing birds of prey and beasts of the wild, but several statues stand out. Continue reading to discover the top six bronze animal sculptures by famous artists.
Charging Bull, New York City, New York
Italian-American artist Arturo di Modica left the Charging Bull sculpture outside the New York Stock Exchange shortly after the 1987 event known as “Black Monday.” The artist gifted the bull to the people of New York to inspire them to never give up. The bull has amazingly detailed features, such as rippling muscle and the illusion of springing into action.
The Last Three, New York City, New York
This 17-foot bronze sculpture in Brooklyn depicts three northern white rhinos piled on top of one another in a gymnastic pose, with the animal in the center upside down. The rhino statue is the work of Gillie and Marc Schattner, two Australian artists and conservationists. Their goal is to bring awareness to the plight of the white rhinos, which are on the brink of extinction.
Lions, Chicago, Illinois
Two bronze lions have famously guarded the entrance to the Art Institute of Chicago since the late 19th century, playing a prominent role in an iconic scene from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Edward Kemeys, who is considered America’s first animalier, crafted the bronze lion statues; he was known for creating realistic portrayals of animals.
Cattle Drive Sculptures, Dallas, Texas
The cattle drive is a renowned Texas custom that highlights the state’s long history of livestock farming. This cattle herding technique is depicted in a collection of sculptures by Robert Summers, with three bronze cowboys on horseback setting the pace for 40 bronze steers suspended in motion as though they were walking the plains. You can see these sculptures at Dallas’s Pioneer Plaza surrounded by native flora, synthetic bluffs, and a miniature waterfall.
Grandfather Cuts Loose the Ponies, Quincy, Washington
Artist David Govedare depicts a stunning vision of wild horses rushing across a hill above the Columbia River with this installation of 15 enormous steel sculptures. You can find this breathtaking pastiche of the American Old West along Interstate 90 or one of the local trails.
Jaguar Devouring a Hare, Baltimore, Maryland
Antoine-Louis Barye juxtaposes the jaguar’s formidable, broad muscular structure with the panicked hare’s nuanced, languid figure. As the jaguar approaches to swallow the innards of its prey, the cat’s ears squeeze against its skull, and its face convulses in rage. The sculpture is currently housed at the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore, although it is not currently on display.
The top six animal sculptures by famous artists reflect the power and elegance of this artform. You can add an impressive animal statue to your own collection with my hyper-realistic German Shepherd bronze sculpture, hand-sculpted and made with 100% hot cast bronze. Feel free to contact me with any questions about my pieces.
