Emmanuel Frémiet

Overall the condition of the bronze is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The flagpole is a little loose. There is minor dark spotting to the bronze and a few larger patches of dirt including to Joan's proper right arm and sash. There is minor wear to the high points including to the proper right hand. There is wear to the terrasse including at the signature. There are minor nicks and scratches to the edges of the terrasse. The top of the flagpole is bent. There is a stable original horizontal joint running through the abdoment and thighs and seat.
"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."

Emmanuel Fremiet trained at the Ecole Gratuité de Dessin in the early 1840s and apprenticed in the studio of François Rude, his uncle.  He also worked in the Musée National d'Histoire Naturelle on a publication on comparative anatomy.  He was eventually recognized as France's foremost animalier sculptor, when he was named professor of zoological drawing at the Musée National d'Histoire Naturelle in Paris in 1875, succeeding Antoine-Louis Barye.

The present model is one of best known portrayals of Joan of Arc, now found in the Place des Pyramides.  First cast in 1874 and modified several times up until 1889, it quickly became a symbol of national pride following the Franco-Prussian war.  The original plaster model is in the permanent collection of the Musée d'Orsay.

RELATED LITERATURE
C. Chevillot, Emmanuel Fremiet, 1824-1910: la Main et le Multiple, exh. cat., Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon, November 5, 1988-January 26, 1989; Musée de Grenoble, February 23-April 30, 1989, p. 127