Pierre-Jules MENE (1810-1879). Arabian horses known as "l'accolade n°2". Bronze group with shaded brown patina, signed on the terrace. Probably cast during the artist's lifetime. Height 34.5 cm - Length : 54 cm - Depth : 19 cm Original walnut base, partially stained black. Bibliography: Michel Poletti, Alain Richarme, "Pierre-Jules Mène, catalog raisonné", Paris, Univers du Bronze, 2007, model listed under no. CHE 20, p.77. Note: presented in 1851, l'Accolade illustrates the mastery of Pierre-Jules Mène, the great animal artist of the 19th century. One of his best-known compositions, it celebrates the nobility and elegance of oriental horses, rendered with a remarkable sense of movement and anatomy. The quality of the casting and patina, combined with its original base, give this bronze a precious and sought-after character, probably produced during the artist's lifetime.