Jean-Léon Gérôme

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good. There is some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is some dryness to the patina in the crevices of the uniform. There is some warping and cracking to the top of the base.
"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."

Jean-Léon Gérôme is the most accomplished and innovative of the great French 19th-century painters who turned their hand to sculpture. Most of his sculpture relates closely to his paintings, concentrating on themes from mythology, the daily life of the ancient world and the Middle East and historical subjects. Principal amongst the latter is his equestrian statuette of Bonaparte entering Cairo.

Gérôme exhibited Bonaparte entering Cairo at the Salon in 1897 where it was promptly bought by the Ministère de l'Instruction publique et des Beaux-Arts. Due to its popularity Gérôme had the Siot-Decauville foundry produce bronzes like this, at half the size of the original bronze 'pour metre dans le commerce'. Even in the reduced size the elaborate decoration of Bonaparte's uniform and the horse's harness are impressively and crisply cast.

RELATED LITERATURE
Ackerman, p.322-3, no.S.38