François Pompon, the famous French sculptor of the early 20th century, has become increasingly popular in recent years. The refined style of his animal sculptures, imbued with modernity and simplicity, is increasingly attracting collectors and art lovers.
In this article, we explore François Pompon’s popularity and the impressive results of his latest auctions.
The Ascension of François Pompon
François Pompon, born in Saulieu in 1855, is best known for his representations of animals, particularly his iconic “White Bear”. After working in the shadow of great sculptors such as Auguste Rodin, Pompon developed his own style, characterised by simple lines and a smooth surface that capture the essence of animals.
In recent years, interest in his work has grown considerably. Collectors particularly seek out his bronze and stone works, which are often featured prominently at auctions.
Recent auctions have shown a significant resurgence of interest in the works of François Pompon. Here are a few notable results.
François Pompon’s White Bear, the star of auctions
The best-known of the artist’s works is also the one that sells best, especially if it was made during his lifetime.
For example, copy no. 1 in Lens stone from 1925, based on the 1922 model (25 x 45 x 12 cm) sold for €454,000 in July 2019 at the Étampes auction house.
A more recent sale of a bronze reproduction (24 x 44 x 11.5 cm) by the Valsuani foundry, most probably with a patina by François Pompon himself, sold for €195,000 in December 2023 at Hôtel Drouot.
François Pompon’s Grand Cerf holds the sculptor’s auction record
On 2 April 2021, a bronze Grand Cerf by François Pompon from the Andro foundry, from an edition of ten made in 1930, was auctioned at Hôtel Drouot.
The sale fetched €793,600, setting a world record for a work by François Pompon.
François Pompon’s birds, one of the most sought-after categories at auction by discerning collectors
Among all the animals, it would seem that François Pompon had a predilection for birds, whether wild or farmyard. The artist captured a whole bestiary of feathered creatures: coot, pigeon, cock, crane, guinea fowl, hen, condor, pelican, owl, raven, duck, partridge, marabou, etc.
Pintade by François Pompon, bronze print by the founder A. A. Hébrard
Poule d’eau by François Pompon, bronze print by the founder C. Valsuani
Le coq by François Pompon, bronze print by the founder C. Valsuani
Special mention should be made of a 102 cm high “life-size” Crowned Crane at rest with smooth egret, which sold for €289,500 in 2013 at Sotheby’s Paris.
Why this growing interest in the works of François Pompon?
Several factors explain the rise in popularity and value of François Pompon’s works:
- Minimalism and modernity: Pompon’s refined, yet timeless style resonates particularly well with current trends in art and design that value simplicity and elegance.
- Rarity: Pompon’s limited production makes his works rare and precious.
- International recognition: Recent exhibitions and retrospectives have made a major contribution to the rediscovery of his work. The Gunma Museum of Art in Tatebayashi, Japan, for example, has organised a travelling exhibition of works by François Pompon in 5 Japanese cities in 2021.
François Pompon’s value continues to rise, supported by impressive auctions and growing interest from collectors and cultural institutions.
If you are an art lover or investor and original stone sculptures or bronze reproductions from the artist’s lifetime are not in your budget, you should take a look at our marble or reconstituted stone editions produced with the support of the François Pompon Association. You’ll be sure to find the piece you need to satisfy your passion for the artist’s work, while making sure you invest your money in a high-quality reproduction.
