Mateo HERNANDEZ (1885-1949) - Small Gazelle

Sculpture in Ceylon ebony made using the direct carving technique, representing a gazelle treated in a stylized manner. Unique piece. Signed on the side of the terrace: ‘Mateo Hernández’. Three exhibition labels under the base (not readable). 1935. Old restauration on the legs.

Dimensions:
Height: 9 ½ in.
Length: 9 ¾ in.
Width: 2 ½ in.

Provenance:
Former collection Fernande Hernández, gift from the artist
Former Collection Rimsky, given by Mrs Hernández
Remained in the family since

Exhibition: Mateo Hernández, New York, Brummer Gallery, 15th March-11th May 1935, n° 27 (this copy)

Remarks:
Mateo Hernández quickly distinguishes himself with his representations of animals he can daily observe in the Jardin des Plantes, on stones such as granite, diorite and basalt. His sculptures are characterized by how they “seize” the animal’s spirit, to express its essence. As soon as 1927, when his first exhibition took place in Madrid, his work wins a big success and some of his pieces join the royal family’s collection. What characterizes most his work, obviously very modern, is the deep search for expression volumes and shapes, which comes from his own ability to convey the purity of the lines of force underlying the final work. Which expresses a strong sense of hierastism, in which the sensitivity is close to that of the Ancient Egypt works. The artist tries to render the deep nature of what he sees, with a great respect for the art of sculpture, abandoning decorative fantasies for a pure and refined design.