Eugène-André Oudiné

Overall the condition of the marble is good, with wear and some dirt to the surface consistent with age. The marble appears to have been placed outdoors for some time, having led to a textured surface; in particular to the thighs, the hair, the feet, the nose, and the proper right hand and comb. There are losses to two of the fingers of the proper left hand. There is minor veining to the marble, consistent with the material, notably at the abdomen and feet. There are a few small naturally occurring inclusions, including at the right hip and the proper right shoulder. There are some minor chips to the bottom edge.
"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 beautiful marble depicts the biblical character of Bathsheba washing her luxuriant tresses of hair, which proved so irresistible to King David. Oudiné's model was exhibited at the Salon in 1859, and a version was commissioned by the Louvre; it remains on the North Facade of the Cour Carrée of the Louvre Palace. 

Eugène André Oudiné enjoyed a considerable career as a sculptor, engraver and medallist. He studied under André Galle, Louis Petitot and Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, debuting at the Salon in 1837 with a Gladiateur blessé. Oudiné went on to receive numerous important commissions, including for the Louvre and various churches, as well as for commemorative medals. Oudiné was the recipient of medals at the Salon and the Exposition universelle in 1843 and 1855, and was elevated to Chevalier de l'ordre national de la Légion d'honneur in 1857. 

RELATED LITERATURE
S. Lami, Dictionnaire des Sculpteurs de l'école française au dix-neuvième siècle, Paris, 1921, vol. 4, pp. 32-37