A handsome and large scale pair of French 19th century patinated Bronze statues named Avant Le Combat and Apres Le Combat, signed by Dumaige. This wonderful pair are raised by square bases mounted with front plaques inscribed with the name of each statue. The Avant Le Combat, meaning Before the Combat statue is of a Grenadier drummer rallying the troops while fully dressed in his army uniform including his hat and weapons. The Apres Le Combat, meaning After the Combat statue is of an infantry soldier with his gear bag behind him on the ground while he is smoking a pipe and relaxing on his musket. The Grenadiers of the Old Guard were originally a group of elite soldiers of the French Army under the direct command of Napoleon, but grew considerably over time. It acted as his bodyguard and tactical reserve. The Guard received better pay, rations, quarters, and equipment, and all guardsmen ranked one grade higher than all non-Imperial Guard soldiers. Other French soldiers even referred to Napoleon's Imperial Guard as "the Immortals". Wonderful and rich patina and exquisite detail throughout.