Foulque 

François Pompon made this sculpture of a 'Foulque,' or coot, from cast bronze, sometime in the early 20th century. Pompon was fascinated by animals, and by the challenge of capturing their essence through simplification. Notice how he has reduced the bird's form to its most fundamental shapes: the smooth, swelling body, the elegantly curved neck, and the slender legs. The choice of bronze is significant. This is a material that allows for precise modeling and a highly polished surface, reflecting light in a way that enhances the sculpture's sleekness. The casting process also allows for the production of multiple copies, making the artwork accessible to a wider audience. Pompon was working at a time when traditional distinctions between fine art and craft were being questioned. His 'Foulque' exemplifies this blurring of boundaries, combining artistic vision with skilled craftsmanship. It invites us to appreciate the beauty of simple forms and the artistry of industrial production.