Jules Moigniez

Jules Moigniez (28 May 1835 – 29 May 1894) was a French animalier sculptor who worked during the 19th century. His output was primarily cast in bronze and he frequently exhibited his sculptures at the Paris Salon. He was best known for his bronzes depicting birds, although his skill and versatility enabled him to produce quality horse sculptures (primarily racehorses), dog sculptures and hunting scenes. Moigniez's father bought a foundry to cast his son's sculptures, which was of great benefit to Moigniez as he didn't have the added foundry costs that most of his contemporaries had to pay. Moigniez studied sculpture under the tutelage of Paul Comoléra (a student of François Rude) in Paris. It is quite likely that Moigniez's attraction to bird sculpture was a direct result of his education under Comoléra, who was himself a bird specialist.

Suicide and legacy Moigniez suffered a long illness in the later years of his life. He died at Saint-Martin-du-Tertre, France—by his own hand—when he committed suicide one day after his 59th birthday on 29 May 1894. His grave is located on the left upon entering the cemetery, close to the chapel of Varé. His bird sculptures are among the finest ever created.

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