This limited edition antique bronze sculpture is easily one of my personal favorite works that has ever been part of the Henning Fine Art collection! Created by the renown early 20th century American sculpture Edward Field Sanford, this impressive figure depicts a battle ready "Ajax the Great" a Spartan / Greek mythological hero with his shield and sword powerfully drawn. Measuring approximately 21 1/4 inches in total height with the base measuring 12 3/4 x 6 1/4 inches makes it a large and impressive work compared to the majority of his non public commissioned works. The detail is breath taking especially observing every single sculpted muscle from his defined biceps, forearms, abdomen and back; nothing was skipped or rushed. The figure is tastefully portrayed in nude fashion in order to better celebration the human form with a clear appreciation for its natural beauty.

The soldier is two tone bronze with his helmet and sheath gilt in gold as well as his leather strap, sword hilt and soldier relief upon the shield. “Edward Field Sanford” is clearly seen signed upon the top of the base as well as the foundry mark behind his right foot which reads, “A. Kunst Bronze WKS, Astoria, N.Y.”. “Ajax” reads on the front face of the base. This work is part of a limited edition numbered only 11 which can be seen just at the end of his signature. While the bronze is numbered the total edition is believed to be extraordinarily small as one has never surfaced for sale prior to now. These would have been cast on a “per order” basis resulting in it being an incredibly scarce sculpture by Sanford. Sanford is known for his large scale works for public institutions and monuments and even the Metropolitan has retained a bronze for their collection. The condition is all original and overall excellent but some fading is present to the gilt portions from being occasionally handled over the last 100+ years.. This was cast in 1914 and has a stellar patina. The images provided accurately represent the quality, condition and aesthetic beauty of this highly rare bronze sculpture but if you have any questions please feel free to ask prior to purchasing!