AFTER A MODEL BY MICHELANGELO BUONARROTI (1475-1564)FRENCH, 19TH CENTURY | Moses

Overall, the condition of the bronze is good, with some dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The bronze is cast in sections. Joints are slightly visible to the proper right upper arm at the bicep, horizontally across the torso, to the proper right knee and to the top of the base running along the proper right foot. The patina is slightly dry in areas, including to the proper right side, to the tablets, to the back of the neck, to the abdomen and to the lower parts of the beard. There is some whitish residue to the proper left shoulder at the top. There is some staining to the bronze in areas, including to the proper right side and to the top of the base. There are some nicks and scratches, in particular to the edges of the base.
"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."

The Maison Barbedienne was at the forefront of bronze sculpture in France during the 19th and first half of the 20th century. The foundry initially produced bronze reductions of antique sculptures, and began producing works modelled by living artists in 1843. From this point onward, Barbedienne held contracts with the most prominent sculptors in France, including Antoine-Louis Barye, Amntonin Mercié and Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux, and later Auguste Rodin and Emmanuel Fremiet.  The present figure is a fine bronze reduction of Michelangelo's monumental marble sculpture of Moses, made for the tomb of Pope Julius II, circa 1513-15 (San Pietro in Vincoli, Rome). See another bronze version of Moses after Michelangelo, sold at Sotheby's New York, 1 February 2013, lot 404.