- 124
Émile Picault
Estimate
20,000 - 30,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- Émile Picault
- King Menthuophis and Queen Nitocris
each signed on the base: E. PICAULT, the female figure stamped: G S / MÉDAILLE D'OR / 1867
- bronze, dark brown-green patina, on gilt bronze bases
Condition
Overall the condition of the bronzes is very good with some minor wear to the patinas consistent with age.
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
The legendary Queen Nitocris succeeded Menthuophis (who was either her brother or her husband) as ruler of Egypt following his murder circa 2200 BC. In Nitocris' six year reign there were two particularly important events: the completion of the Third Pyramid and the dreadful revenge against the murderers of Menthuophis. Nitocris instigated the latter by organising a banquet for all the accomplices in a purposefully constructed underground chamber. During the feast the chamber was suddenly flooded with water channelled from the Nile through a hidden pipe. Everyone drowned apart from Nitocris herself, who had arranged an escape.
Picault was a student under Royer and exhibited a wide genre of sculpture at the Salon between 1863-1909. His Egyptian figures are some of his most popular works. The present pair are also known under the alternative title of The Pharoah's Gift and The Queen's Offering.
Picault was a student under Royer and exhibited a wide genre of sculpture at the Salon between 1863-1909. His Egyptian figures are some of his most popular works. The present pair are also known under the alternative title of The Pharoah's Gift and The Queen's Offering.