Alexandre-Louis-Marie Charpentier

bronze, dark brown patina

Torino 1902. Le Art Decorative Internazionali del nuovo secolo, Milan, 1994, p. 280, no. 190; Alexandre Charpentier (1856-1909). Naturalisme et Art Nouveau, exh. cat. Musée d'Orsay, Paris, 2008, p. 25 and cat. 83 (for a discussion of the model)

Overall the condition of the bronze is good, with some dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is some rubbing to the patina at the high points. There is dryness to the patina in several areas, notably to the kneeling man's proper right side and the floating man's proper right knee and between his legs. There are a few minor nicks and scratches, including to the floating man's proper right elbow. The underside is lined with four patches of felt.
"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 gilt bronze original of Charpentier's innovative composition representing the passing of time surmounted an ornate clock designed by T. Selmersheim. A cast of the same dimensions and patination as the present one is at the Musée Rodin in Paris (inv. no. S.1219).