A Rare Swiss Carved Black Forest life size standing bear guard holding a halberd, circa 1870

With brass label inscribed Sculptures Binder Lucerne Zematt St Moritz Fabrique Brienz 238cm High

See Jay Arenski and Son Daniels The Art of the black Forest p76. This carving bears was probably made to specific order by Rudolf Linder who specialised in carving elaborate bear sculpture.

This piece is simply incredible. A photo truly doesn’t do it justice. The size- 238cm high. That’s 7ft 9 inches. There’s something regal about this sculpture. The bear stands atop a rock which is also on a plinth. The extra height gives the bear real presence. They’re obviously protecting something important. The spear perfectly balances and is designed with precision. I know because it took me about 30 minutes to get each blade in the correct hole in the mallet on the top! It goes without saying now, but the colour shifts in this particular bear’s fur is wonderful; it adds a depth and gravity to the scene. Just look at the detail on the standing legs, powerful and muscular.