Alfred Boucher

Overall the condition of the marble is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is veining to the marble consistent with the material. There are few small scratches and abrasions to the marble including to the proper left thigh. There are small abrasions to the rock work, especially around the bottom edge.
"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."

Alfred Boucher was the son of a farmhand and worked as a gardener for the sculptor Joseph-Marius Ramus. On discovering Boucher’s natural talent for sculpting, Ramus granted Boucher use of his studio. Boucher in turn would go on to encourage young promising sculptors and acted as mentor to Laure Coutan and Camille Claudel, as well as founding the studio, La Ruche, for young artists. He entered l’Ecole des Beaux Arts de Paris in 1869, and studied under the artists Paul Dubois, Antoine Dumont and Marius Ramus. Boucher achieved great success when he exhibited his work at the Exposition Universelle and was awarded the Grand Prix in 1881 and 1900.

Boucher was intrigued by the effect of representing soft skin against rough rock and repeatedly explored variations on this theme, carving his models in three-quarter relief. Femme nue assise de dos is a rare model which is exceptional among Boucher’s oeuvre as a particularly intimate exploration of the female form.