French, late 18th century After the Antique

Overall the condition of the bronze is good with dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is a large, possibly restored plug to the proper left buttock. There are one or two further plugs, including to underneath the drapery over the proper left hand and to the strap at the chest. There are a few small lacunae, including to the drapery over the left hand and to the proper left thigh. The top part of the body and the majority of the cloak are cast separately; a stable slightly open joint is visible, particularly at the chest and proper right shoulder. The base is also cast separately and joints are visible. The proper left sandal has been partially painted and there are a few flecks of paint elsewhere. There are a few nicks and scratches, in particular to the edges of the base, and a few minor spots of greening. There are a few dirt residues to the hair and side of the treestump.
"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 facture of the present bronze compares with other late 18th-century French bronzes. The fingers, with their carefully delineated fingernails, are comparable to those seen on a Dying Gaul dated to the end of the 18th century sold at Christie's on 10 December 2009, lot 859.