Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse French, 1824-1887

Overall the condition of the terracotta is very good. There is some rubbing and chips consitent with age. There is a small crack to the socle.
"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."

Carrier-Belleuse was instrumental in popularising the fashion for ideal portraits of historical personalities. After his return from England in 1855, he created a lively series of fantasy busts of great artists. Rembrandt was one of the first and was exhibited at the 1863 Union Centrale in faience with a bust of Dürer. These two were soon followed by portraits of Beethoven (see lot 183), Mozart (see lot 10), Michelangelo and Raphael. In 1874 he added to the series Rubens, van Ostade, Velazquez and Murillo.

RELATED LITERATURE
Lami, vol. 1, p. 285; Hargrove, pp. 218-21