Nikolai Ivanovich Lieberich

NIKOLAI IVANOVICH LIEBERICH (St. Petersburg, Russia-1883).
"Bear standing next to a log".
Cast iron.
With stamps of the Kasli foundry, Russia, made between 1870-1880.
Signed.
Nice original patina.
Measurements: 59 x 38 x 38 cm.

Impressive cast iron sculpture of a bear standing next to a tree trunk, based on a model by Russian sculptor Nikolai Ivanovich Lieberich. The sculpture was cast at the famous Kasli foundry in Russia between 1870 and 1880, known for its refined and detailed cast iron works during the 19th century. It features a rich original dark patina and shows exceptional mastery in coat texture, dynamic posture and naturalistic composition. The model is based on the historical fact that the bear was hunted by Tsar Alexander II near the village of Lisino on March 9, 1865.

Nikolai Ivanovich Lieberich was a prominent Russian sculptor, recognized mainly for his works in bronze, especially those depicting hunting scenes, animals and equestrian figures. He trained at the Imperial Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg, where he specialized in sculpture. His style is characterized by its realism and dynamism, capturing the anatomy and movement of animals with great precision. His works are currently in important museum collections in Russia, such as the State Russian Museum and the Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, and the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow.