Carl Vilhelm Emil Milles

Millesgarden, Lindingö, Stockholm

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few nicks to some of the edges of the limbs. There is some wear to the surface down the proper right side. There are a few very slight discolourations to the surface. There are a few minor scratches, including to the back.
"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."

The present torso is a detail of Carl Milles’s sculptural fountain Lilla Najaden (Little Naiad) which was executed in 1916. A Naiad is a water nymph in Greek mythology and was one of a number of Classical sea figures which populate Milles’s work. Little Naiad divulges Milles’s fascination with the forms of sea creatures and his pursuit of rendering their movement in harmony with water.

The Naiad, both beautiful and serene, has until recently been exhibited at the Millesgården in Stolkholm, once the home of the artist and today a museum dedicated to his life and work.

RELATED LITERATURE
M.P. Verneuil, Carl Milles. Sculpteur Suédois, Paris/ Brussels, 1929,  pl. 22; E. Bénézit, Dictionnaire des peintres, sculpteurs, dessinateurs et graveurs, Gründ, 1999, vol. ix, pp. 637-638