Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux

Overall the condition of the bronze is good with some minor wear to the patina consistent with age. There are a few small sprews standing proud of the surface including four around the proper left shoulder and the neck.
"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."

This sketch, also known as Psyché désarmant l'Amour, was posed for by Eugénie Fiocre, principle ballerina at the Paris Opéra from 1864 to 1875. Having met Mlle Fiocre at a dinner given by the duc de Monrny, Carpeaux modelled her portrait in 1869 and it was exhibited at the Paris Salon the following year to great acclaim. The ballerina and the sculptor became friends and it was she who suggested that he model a full length figure of her in her famous role of Psyche. A finished model was edited by Carpeaux's atelier in bronze and terracotta, the sketch model was only edited in bronze after the sculptor's death. See also the note to the previous lot.

RELATED LITERATURE
M. Poletti & A. Richarme, Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux, Paris, 2003, no. ES 2 p. 153