Ferdinand Barbedienne

The famed Barbedienne foundry was started in Paris in 1838 by Ferdinand Barbedienne and Achille Collas, who was the inventor of a machine that would mechanically reduce statues.  They at first produced bronze reductions of antique sculptures of Greek and Roman origin.  Their first contract to produce bronzes modeled by a living artist was made in 1843 when they arranged to produce the works of Francois Rude. They barely survived the French revolution and financial collapse of 1848 which caused many artists and foundries to declare bankruptcy.  Barbedienne actively pursued contracts with the many sculptors of Paris contracting with David D'Angers, Jean-Baptiste Clesinger, and even producing some casts for Antoine Louis Barye as well as others. 

Barbedienne purchased 125 casting models from the late Antoine-Louis Barye's sale in 1876.  He set about casting and selling editions of these sculptures which was very successful.  Ferdinand Barbedienne died in 1891 and was mourned by many in the world of sculpture.  It was said that he strove to the highest quality in his castings.  Albert Susse said of him that he was the  "pride of the nation" and that he "carried the splendor of our industry so loftily to all international competitions".