The Master Sculptors: Degas, Bugatti, Pompon

The Valsuani foundry became the preferred choice for the most demanding sculptors of the early twentieth century. Claude’s technical mastery and artistic sensitivity made him the trusted collaborator of artists whose works now command the highest prices at auction and occupy pride of place in the world’s greatest museums.

Edgar Degas (1834-1917)

Degas created wax and clay sculptures throughout his career but rarely authorized bronze editions during his lifetime. Following his death in 1917, the Valsuani foundry was among those entrusted with casting his sculptor’s estate, including the iconic dancer series. The “Little Fourteen-Year-Old Dancer” and related works remain among the most valuable and recognized sculptures in existence.

Rembrandt Bugatti (1884-1916)

The young animal sculptor developed an exceptionally close working relationship with Claude Valsuani. Bugatti’s dynamic representations of panthers, elephants, jaguars, and other creatures required casting of the highest technical standard to preserve their spontaneous vitality. The depth of their friendship is documented by Bugatti’s creation of a portrait bust of Claude himself, a rare tribute from artist to founder.

François Pompon (1855-1933)

Pompon’s revolutionary simplified animal forms, culminating in the famous “Ours Blanc” (Polar Bear) that brought him fame at age sixty-seven, were perfectly served by Valsuani’s precise lost-wax technique. The foundry’s ability to capture Pompon’s smooth surfaces and essential forms with absolute fidelity contributed significantly to these works’ impact.

Later Collaborations

The foundry’s reputation extended into subsequent generations, attracting Alberto Giacometti and Aristide Maillol among others, ensuring the Valsuani name remained synonymous with bronze casting excellence throughout the twentieth century.