Richard Knecht

Estate of the artist;
Neumeister, Munich, 29 May 2008, lot 734

W. Rodiger, Der Bildhauer Richard Knecht, 1887-1966, Munich, 1968, p. 47

The bronze has been placed outside for some time; as a consequence much of the patina is lost and there is verdigris throughout. There is also dirt throughout, including moisture stains and white spotting, particularly to the chest, the hips, the proper left foot, and the support at the back. There are a few very small original lacunae, including to the hair on the proper right side. There are a few nicks, including to the proper right shoulder. Otherwise the condition is good, with some further surface wear and dirt consistent with age.
"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."

Conceived in 1914, this early work by Richard Knecht showcases the sculptor's training in the art of the Renaissance, which he received under Erwin Kurz and Adolf von Hildebrand at the Münchner Kunstakademie between 1906 and 1914. The young Bather's contorted pose and muscular physique appear to be derived from Michelangelo's Slaves, combined with the modernity of early 20th-century German sculpture. A mundane subject is here transformed into a heroic, idealised image. The present lifesize bronze appears to be the cast recorded by Rodiger (op. cit.) in 1968 as located in München-Borstei.