Ulisse Cambi

Overall the condition of the marble is excellent with some minor dirt and wear consistent with age. There are a few naturally occuring inclusions to the marble, including one to Chlöe's back. There is a large chip to the hem of Daphis' tunic at the back, and some other minor chips. There is some naturally occuring, subtle veining to the marble, visible for example along Daphnis' left arm. The base is carved with an original, separate section towards the back.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Ulisse Cambi entered the Florence Accademia di Belle Arti at a very young age and continued his studies in Rome where he completed his Dafni e Cloè in 1834. Cambi eventually became professor of sculpture at the Accademia in Florence, and another version of his Dafni e Cloè is preserved in the Pitti Palace. One further version of the model is known and is illustrated by Alfonso Panetta.

Cambi favoured a neo-classicism tempered by the 'verissmo' or naturalism made popular in Italian sculpture by Lorenzo Bartolini. The classical subject of Daphnis and Chloe was perfectly suited to Cambi's style. The subject is taken from the 2nd century novel of the same name by Longus which tells the story of the sweet and innocent love between a shepherd and shepherdess.

RELATED LITERATURE
A. Panzetta, Nuovo dizionario degli scultori italiani, vol. 1, Turin, 2003, p. 194, fig.564; V. Vicario, Gli scultori italiani, vol. 1, Lodi, 1994, p. 230-2