Michel-Léonard Béguine

Overall the condition of the marble is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The proper left arm has been reattached at the shoulder and wrist, and the proper right index finger and the top of the hairpin are also reattached. The restoration around these joints has slightly yellowed. There are a few small naturally occurring inclusions, notably to the feet; some inclusions have been filled and appear slightly yellowed, such as to the proper right shoulder at the back, and the proper left abdomen and hip. There is some staining to the terrasse beside the proper left foot.
"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."

Michel-Léonard Béguine, born in Uxeau in 1855, was a student of Aimé Millet and Auguste Dumon in Paris, where he attended the École des Beaux-Arts. He received an honourable mention for his early work La Douleur in 1878, and continued to receive prices and awards throughout his career. Béguine exhibited at the Expositions Universelles of 1889 and 1900, and further afield, including in Chicago, St-Louis, Brussels and Munich.