A. Victor Fontaine

sold Sotheby's New York, October 28, 1998, lot 256.

Emmanuel Benezit, Dictionary of Artists, vol. 5, Grund, Paris, 2006; The artists of the world : Bio-Bibliographical index A-Z, K.G. Saur Verlag, Munich, 1999; Paul Brune, Dictionnaire des Artistes de la Franche-Comte, France, 1912, for entries on the artist.

Overall in good condition and very good presentation. This pair of rare and unusual sphinxes are impressive by their grand scale. As visible in the catalogue illustration, the surface of the white marble has retained its original "skin" and we would advise the buyer not to clean the surface. The faces are very well carved and are pleasant to look at. The bronze mounts are in good condition, with the usual wear consistent with use and age, and are very finely cast. The marble surface shows some green staining to the front of the bust, consistent with the bronze color centered by a beetle which has oxidized with vert de gris. The vert de gris has bled into the stone. All of these age surface defects are still attractive, and again, the surface should not be cleaned. Around the edge of the marble base, one can notice minor chips consistent with age. The hair of the female is finely carved and curled. One sphinx has a chip approx. 3" long to one of the locks.
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.