Paul Joseph Gayrard was born on 3 September 1807 the son of the sculptor and engraver Raymond Gayrard. He studied under his father as well as under Francois Rude and David d'Angers. He made his debut at the Paris Salon in 1827 where his skill was quickly recognised and he gained a first medal. He became highly popular, attracting many wealthy clients and achieving a high degree of success during his lifetime. He continued to exhibit regularly at the Salon and won further medals in 1834 and in 1846. He produced many busts of society figures as well as animal groups. This particular sculpture is part of a series of anthropomorphic groups of monkeys riding horses. As well as smaller works he also sculpted a number of monuments for churches and public buildings including the Statue of Universal Suffrage at the Palais Bourbon.

A number of his works are held by museums and galleries including the Prado Museum, Madrid and at the Louvre.