Charles Théodore Perron

Overall, the condition of the marble is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few small naturally occurring inclusions, notably to the woman's proper left arm and hand and to the hair at the back. There is some very slight white veining, consistent with the material, including to the woman's proper right arm. There are a few very minor chips, notably around the bottom edge of the terrasse. The onyx base is in good condition with a few small chips and abrasions to the corners and edges. There is minor tarnishing to the gilt bronze mount of the base.
"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 charming marble of a mother and child shows superbly realistic expressions in the half smiles on both faces. Charles Théodore Perron, known for his genre sculptures, was a student of Alexandre Falguière in Paris and part of the Sociétaire des Artistes Français from 1896. Having received several awards and recognition for his work in marble, he is also known for some decorative chryselephantine Art Nouveau groups. The present group is distinguished by its sumptuous onyx base which is an attractive nod to the Art Nouveau.

RELATED LITERATURE
P. Kjellberg, Bronzes of the 19th Century: Dictionary of Sculptors, London, 1994, p. 538; E. Bénézit, Dictionnaire critique et documentaire des peintures sculptures dessinateurs et graveurs de tous les temps et de tous les pays par un group d'écrivains spécialistes français et étrangers, Paris, 1999, vol. 10,  p. 772