A SÈVRES WHITE BISCUIT BUST OF BENJAMIN FRANKLIN CIRCA 1790-95

modelled facing forward wearing an open jacket, waistcoat and jabot , incised numeral 9.

Generally 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Of the many representations of Franklin made throughout his lifetime two models produced at Sèvres may be particularly good likenesses. One was taken from the 1778 bust by Jean Antoine Houdon, whilst the other, the present model,  which was produced with variations in the number and size of the buttons, and at least two sizes, was taken from the 1777 terrracotta bust modelled from life by Jean-Jacques Caffiéri (1725-92). A similar larger bust of Franklin, after the Caffiéri original, on an underglaze-blue waisted socle was sold in these rooms, May 25, 2000, lot 58.

Sotheby's would like to thank Tamara Préaud for her assistance in the cataloguing of this lot.