Alfred Boucher

Sotheby's London, 2 June 2010, lot 98 

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is some dryness and some very minor greening to some of the crevices. There are a few minor scratches to the patina, including to the front runner's proper left leg. There is some dryness to the patina at the back runner's lower legs and the front runner's raised leg. The base is cast separately and original stable joints are very slightly visible around the feet.
"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."

Boucher's Au But is one of his best-known models, and featured as the cover image of the 2000 exhibition at the Musée Paul Dubois – Alfred Boucher in Nogent-sur-Seine. It depicts three athletes in the last desperate moments of a race, each stretching a hand forward to touch the finishing line. Boucher exhibited the model for the first time at the Salon of 1886 and it proved an instant hit with critics and public alike. The sculpture was awarded a first class medal and the State purchased a life-size cast to be placed in the Jardin du Luxembourg. The impact of the sculpture is based on the powerful dynamism of the athletes and their precarious balance on the base, as the entire group seems to thrust forward. Boucher's friend, the explorer Gabriel Bonvalot posed for the artist as he modelled the three energetic figures. Reductions of the life-size bronze were cast by Siot-Decauville in three sizes, of which this is the largest. 

RELATED LITERATURE
J. Piette, Alfred Boucher 1850-1934 "sculpteur – humaniste", exh. cat. Musée Paul Dubois – Alfred Boucher, Nogent-sur-Seine, 2000, no. 39a, p. 46