Raoul François Larche

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 to the marble, most of them with fill, including to the proper left upper arm, below the proper right armpit, to the buttocks, and below the proper left knee. There is some very light veining to the marble consistent with the material, including to the proper left thigh.
"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."

Raoul Larche attended the Ecole Nationale Supérieure des Beaux Arts in Paris, where he studied under Jouffroy, Delaplanche, Falguière and Gérôme. He debuted at the Salon in 1884 and exhibited there until his death in 1912. He received several awards during his career, including the gold medal for sculpture at the Paris 1900 Exposition Universelle and a medal of honour in 1910.

La Sève is both an allegory for the arrival of spring and refers to the metamorphosis of the nymph Daphne, who was turned into a tree to rescue her from the advances of Apollo. The 235cm. high plaster of the model was exhibited at the salon in 1893 and was met with wide acclaim. A marble version followed in 1907.