Ferdinand Barbedienne was a prominent French metalworker and founder of the renowned Barbedienne foundry. Born on August 6, 1810, in Paris, France, Barbedienne played a significant role in the 19th-century art world, particularly in producing high-quality bronze sculptures and decorative arts.
Barbedienne initially trained as a wallpaper designer and later transitioned to metalworking. In 1838, he co-founded the Barbedienne foundry in Paris with Achille Collas, a skilled engineer. He also collaborated with many prominent artists of his time, contributing to the production of sculptures by artists such as Antoine-Louis Barye, Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse, and Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux — The foundry gained acclaim for its exceptional craftsmanship and precision in producing bronze sculptures and other decorative items — their commitment to quality and attention to detail led to numerous awards at international exhibitions.
Barbedienne was a successful businessman and a supporter of the arts. He served as a member of the French Society of Industrial Artists and promoted and advanced the interests of artists and artisans during his lifetime.
Ferdinand Barbedienne passed away on March 21, 1892, leaving a legacy in the world of decorative arts. The Barbedienne foundry continued its operations for several years after his death, producing high-quality bronze works that remain highly sought after by collectors and art enthusiasts.