Claude Lalanne

number 1 from an edition of 8

JGM Galerie, Paris
Acquired from the above by the present owners

Claude & François-Xavier Lalanne:  Art, Work, Life, New York, 2012, p. 83 (for the model in the garden at the residence of François-Xavier and Claude Lalanne)

Overall in very good condition. This piece has been exhibited in an outdoor setting, and the patina remains in excellent condition. The surfaces showing a layered green and brown patina throughout. This sculpture when viewed in person displays a deeply sculptural and detailed form with superb scale and presence. With a few small and minor surface scratches and a few minor areas of isolated rubbing to the patinated surfaces. A dynamic and graceful sculptural group by the Lalanne ideal for one’s exterior garden. The first appearance at auction of this exceedingly rare example of the model. The only other illustrated example of the form is in the collection of the artist and placed within their garden. Please note this piece is of considerable weight. Please contact the department or post sale services for assistance in the transport of this work.
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 Rape of Europa myth has captivated artists for centuries, perhaps most famously by Titian in the sixteenth century.  The narrative of Princess Europa overtaken by the god Jupiter (in bull form) results in the birth of Minos and the beginning of civilization on the island of Crete—the mythical first spark of society and culture that would sow the seeds for the European continent itself.  This emotionally charged subject matter is translated into a surreal, monumental scale by Claude Lalanne.  Here, the heightened dynamism takes a placid, stylized turn with its graceful forms and sweeping use of line, staging an affectionate bond between woman and bull.