Carl Frederik Holbech Danish, 1811-1880

The middle tow on the figure's left foot is restored. There is some natural veining in the marble, other the sculpture is in very good condition.
"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."

This exquisite neo-classical marble of the kneeling Eurydice with a serpent entwining itself around her ankle is one of the most celebrated works by the Danish sculptor Carl Frederick Holbech.  Holbech was born in Denmark and trained at the Academy in Copenhagen. In 1841 he moved to Rome to work in the studio of the acclaimed Danish artist, Bertel Thorvaldsen.  Respected for his skill and creativity, Holbech so impressed  his master that upon Thorvaldsen's death Holbeck was granted his studio.  Holbeck style is one of restrained romanticism.  His work is a delicate balance of neo-classical execution and dramatic narrative.

The Dying Eurydice depicts the beautiful wife of Orpheus brought to her knees by the serpent's venomous bite. Holbeck exhibited his marble at the Charlottenborg exhibition of 1851.  Many of the sculptor's other marbles are now in museum collections including the NY Carlsberg-Glyptothek, the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, Copenhagen and the Gallery Lotzbech, Munich.  

RELATED LITERATURE
Thieme & Becker, p.326.