A fine pair of French gilt and patinated bronze raptus groups, cast from models by Louis-Simon Boizot, 1743-1809

one depicting Pluto and Proserpina, the other Boreas and Orithya, on gilt bronze square bases with acathus leaf scrolls

J.G. Mann, Wallace Collection Catalogues: Sculpture - Marbles, Terra-Cottas and Bronzes, Carvings in Ivory and Wood, Plaquettes, Medals, Coins, and Wax-Reliefs, London, 1931, pp. 65-66, ills. 50-51.
Knoedler Gallery, Catalogue of the French Bronze 1500-1800, exhib. New York 1968, no. 80a-b.
Similar groups have been sold at Sotheby's London, 9 November 1999, lot 63.

In overall good condition with some minor marks, scratches and wear to the patination and gilding consistent with age. One tip of attribute in left hand of Pluto missing, Proserpina's leg with short, slightly deeper scratch above the ancle. One base incised to the side with faux Henry Dasson signature.
"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."

The present bronze groups have been cast after models conceived originally for reproduction in biscuit de Sèvres by Louis-Simon Boizot (1743-1809), which he exhibited at the Salon of 1786. Boizot drew his inspiration from the earlier models of the same subject by Gaspard Marsy (1628-1681) and François Giradon (1636-1711), designed as garden statues which formed part of a group of twenty-four figures commissioned by King Louis XIV from 1674 on for the Parterre d'Eau at Versailles. Sketches for these statues are being preserved in the Cabinet des desseins at the Louvre.