Pierre-Jules Mêne

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few slightly visible original casting joints, including at the base of both tails. There is a square plug to the underbelly of the each of the horses. There are a few minor dirt marks.
"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."

Mêne's group of a courting Arab mare and stallion, known today as L'Accolade, was first exhibited in red wax with a thin black patina at the Salon of 1852, entitled Tachiani and Nedjébé, chevaux arabes. The following year a bronze version was exhibited and in 1855, at the Exposition Universelle, the wax was re-submitted alongside two of his other works and resulted in Mêne receiving a medal.

RELATED LITERATURE
M. Poletti and A. Richarme, Pierre-Jules Mêne. Catalogue raisonné, Paris, 2007, p. 77, no. CHE20