AFTER FRANÇOIS GIRARDON (1628-1715)FRENCH, 19TH CENTURY | Louis XIV on horseback

Greenish brown patina. Standard surface abrasions commensurate with age. The reins in his proper left hand are bent and loose. There are some standard casting flaws throughout including some patches and plugs on the horse's rear on proper right side. Otherwise overall good condition, good detail.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This impressive bronze is a reduction of the colossal equestrian statute of Louis XIV by François Girardon, commissioned in 1682 for the Place Louis le Grand, now the Place Vendôme, Paris, and unveiled in 1699. The monument was subsequently destroyed by throngs in 1792 and only one hoof remains, now preserved in the Louvre. A number of reductions existed in the 17th and 18th centuries, one of which was owned by George IV. The popularity of this model resulted in the production of numerous 19th century reductions as well by Parisian bronziers such as Beurdeley and Henri Dasson.