Italie, Rome, XVIIIe siècle, d'après Michel-Ange (1475-1564) Moïse

Collection privée française.

Good condition overall with minor surface dirt consistent with age and handling. The base appears to be a later addition. A few hairline firing fissures are visible at several places. The tip of Moses' proper right foot appears to be slightly repaired with fillings to the terrace as well. The back of the terracotta has been hollowed out for the firing. Very fine modelling of the terracotta precise in all details, particularly in the treatment of the hands and the hair.
"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."

Notre terre cuite reprend la composition du Moïse que Michel-Ange réalisa entre 1513 et 1515, figure centrale du tombeau de Jules II. Initialement commandé pour la basilique Saint-Pierre de Rome, le tombeau prendra finalement place en la basilique Saint-Pierre-aux-Liens. La remarquable qualité du modelage est notamment appréciable dans la maîtrise d'exécution des mains, dans le traitement poussé des multiples mèches ondoyantes de la barbe, dans le travail abouti des drapés et dans l'expressivité du visage de Moïse.