Gustave Doré 1832-1883 La dÉfense nationale

bronze, dark brown patina, signed G. Doré and raised on a later red marble base.

Kjellberg, Pierre, Bronzes of the 19^th century, Dictionary of sculptors, Paris, 1994, p.289 for the illustration of the present model.

 

Overall in good condition with the usual minor scratches and tarnished areas consistent with age and use.
"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."

Gustave Dore, the celebrated and prolific illustrator and painter turned later to sculpture, making his debut at the Salon in 1877 with Le Parque et l'Amour (Fate and Love). The original plaster model for this group was Dore's entry for the competition for a statue to commemorate the Siege of Paris; the winner was in fact Barrias. The plaster was subsequently sold in the Dore sale of April 1885 after his death, catalogue no. 187; ' La Defense Nationale. Modele unique en platre'. It was cast in two sizes, a version of the larger size was shown in the Exposition Universelle of 1889. A version of this model was sold Sothebys New York, The Joey and Toby Tanenbaum Collection, May 26th 1994, lot 36.