Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse French, 1824 - 1887

this example is illustrated in Hargrove plate. 162

Overall in its good and original condition, the patina has preserved its rich color. The sculpture is set with a later parcel gilt-bronze stand.
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.

The present rare composition of the standing Michelangelo descending a short flight of stairs holding an écorché in his left hand was drawn from an écorché (the small crouching figure clamping his hands to his head as if tormented by demons) which can be seen at the Berlin Dahlem museum and that is attribute to Michelangelo. Later in the 1850's After his return from England, Carrier created a lively series of fantasy busts of great artists. Rembrandt was one of the first and was exhibited at the 1863 Union Centrale in faience with a bust of Dürer. These two were soon followed by portraits of Beethoven, Mozart, Raphael and Michelangelo; all four appeared as terracottas in the 1868 sale. In 1874 he added to the series Rubens, van Ostade, Velasquez and Murillo.