Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux

Overall the condition of the marble is very good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few naturally occurring inclusions of the marble, in particular to the proper right thigh, to the chest and to the back. There is minor veining to the marble consistent with the material. There are a few dirt marks to the terrasse.
"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."

This finely carved marble is an adaptation of Carpeaux's famous haut-relief from the Pavillon de Flore. After its completion in 1870, Barbedienne mistakenly predicted that the work would be a commercial failure; it soon became one of Carpeaux's most successful models. Carpeaux sold a marble version for 15000 francs to a private collector in London. There is a preparatory oil sketch of this subject in the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Valenciennes. The present marble was edited in these dimensions by Susse and appears in their catalogue of 1914.

RELATED LITERATURE
M. Poletti and Richarme, Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux sculpteur. Catalogue raisonné de l'oeuvre édité, Paris, 2003, p. 88, no. 2 SE11