Henri Laurens

M. Michaut, Aix-en-Provence
Acquis auprès du précédent en 1979

There is some dust in the protruding parts and a minor loss to the figure's left arm. Otherwise this work is in very 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."

signed with monogram (on the base), red terracotta. Executed in an edition of 7 numbered from 0 to 6.

La sculpture de Laurens est pour moi, plus que toute autre, une véritable projection de lui-même dans l'espace, un peu comme une ombre à trois dimensions. Sa manière même de respirer, de toucher, de sentir, de penser, devient objet, devient sculpture.

 

En travaillant la terre, Laurens travaille aussi le vide qui entoure cette matière, l'espace même devient volume. Laurens crée simultanément des volumes d'espace et des volumes de terre. Ces volumes alternent, s'équilibrent et ensemble, deviennent la sculpture.

 

Alberto Giacometti

(extrait d'un article paru dans Labyrinthe en janvier 1945, cité in Henri Laurens (catalogue d'exposition), Galerie Claude Bernard, Paris, 1960, p. 5)