Selected works

Characteristic of the ideal naturalism of the sixteenth century, these two statuettes are influenced by the Antique: the horse evokes that of the equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius placed on the Capitol, while the bull is inspired by the Taurus Farnese, found in Rome in 1546 Heir to these prestigious ancient examples, Giambologna composed his own bestiary, composed of horses, bulls, turkeys or birds. Since the sixteenth century, the horse in step and the Bull of Giambologna are often presented as pendants. The European craze for this bronze menagerie prompted Antonio Susini (active in 1572-1624), pupil and continuator of Giambologna, to use these models. Subsequently, other sculptors spread them throughout Europe. He created an emulation between artists, all in search of the finest quality of modeling and carving.