ALBERT-ERNEST CARRIER-BELLEUSE | Bust of Raphael

Overall, the condition of the marble is good, with some dirt and minor wear to the surface consistent with age. There is particular dirt to the crevices around the shoulder and clavicles and to the crevices of the drapery. There are a few minor inclusions, including a series of slightly dark coloured inclusions above the proper left eye. There are a few small scuff marks, including to the hair on the proper right side, to the back of the hat and to the proper left side of the truncation at the back. There is some veining to the marble, consistent with the material, including to the top of the hat at the centre of the head and on the proper right side. There is a minor chip to the truncation on the proper left side at the back, and there are a few very minor chips around the bottom where the bust meets the socle. The black marble socle is in good condition. There is some very slight veining to the front of the socle and 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."

Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse was one of the most important and innovative sculptors of 19th-century France. During his long career, Carrier-Belleuse was responsible for important public monuments, as well as creating decorative sculpture for a diverse clientele. One of his major contributions to sculpture is the introduction of 19th-century technology in his workshop to efficiently reproduce his models for an eager market. This way his terracotta and marble models could be dispersed widely. Carrier-Belleuse’s prolific workshop also became an important training ground for younger sculptors, notably Auguste Rodin, who acted as the master’s assistant between 1864 and 1870.  This fine bust celebrates the Renaissance master Raphael Sanzo di Urbino. It is a charming portrayal of the youthful Raphael, depicting him with a wistful yet noble expression. The work is comparatively subdued, but the artist's expert handling of detail is apparent in the virtuoso treatment of the hair and clothing. Carrier-Belleuse made several other sculptures paying homage to notable artists and writers, including Dante, Dürer and Delacroix. 

The signature on this bust indicates that it was made early in the sculptor's career; after 1868, Carrier-Belleuse changed his signature from A. CARRiER  to A. CARRiER-BELLEUSE. 

RELATED LITERATURE
J. Hargrove and G. Grandjean, Carrier-Belleuse. Le maître de Rodin, exh. cat. Palais de Compiègne, Paris, 2014