Diego Giacometti

Coty family, France (acquired from the artist)
Acquired from the above by the present owner in 1990

Michel Butor, Diego Giacometti, Paris, 1985, illustration of another cast p. 127
Daniel Marchesseau, Diego Giacometti, Paris, 1986, illustrations of another cast pp. 93 & 177
Françoise Francisci, Diego Giacometti, Catalogue de l'œuvre, Paris, 1986, vol. I, illustration of another cast p. 15

Apart from some scattered spots of verdigris throughout, this work is in 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."

Animals first appeared in Diego Giacometti's work around 1935. At this time the artist, who was living in Stampa in Italy, developed interest in the animal world, finding inspiration in dogs and cats as well as in wilder animals of the Valle Bregaglia.

In an interview with Patricia de Beauvais, the artist explained the origin of the Promenade des amis: 'C'était pour une cliente qui faisait des ventes pour la protection des animaux. Alors j'ai pensé à ça, La Promenade des amis: un cheval avec trois petits chiens dont un, en train d'arroser l'arbre et un autre qui le flaire. Il y a eu une cliente qui me l'a fait enlever. Ça la génait mais les chiens, ils sont tous les mêmes, je lui ai répondu'' (quoted in Christian Boutonnet & Rafael Ortiz, Diego Giacometti, Paris, 2003, p. 95).

The present work was acquired directly from the artist by a member of the Coty family, a well known perfume manufacturer who was one of the wealthiest families in France in the mid-20th century.