JOSEPH MARIE THOMAS LAMBEAUX | La Charmeuse des serpents (The Snake Charmer)

Overall the condition of the marble is very good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The proper right thumb and little finger are reattached. There is some light natural veining to the marble, notably to the abdomen. There are a few small naturally occurring inclusions, including to the proper right leg at the back and to the proper right arm. There are a few minor chips and abrasions, including to the hair and 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."

Jef Lambeaux was arguably the most important Belgian sculptor of the late 19th century. The present marble exemplifies his highly original oeuvre, with a seemingly subversive representation of Eve as a snake charmer, as opposed to the victim of the snake's temptation. The woman's angular features, combined with a softly modelled, supple physique, are characteristic of Lambeaux's idiosyncratic style. Her languid pose, mirrored by the snake writhing against her leg, creates a deeply sensuous image.

Born in Antwerp in 1852, Joseph Maria Thomas (Jef) Lambeaux studied at the Academy, working in particular in the workshop of Joseph Geefs. He trained in Paris for three years and frequented Rome and Florence, where he was greatly inspired by Baroque masterpieces. First exhibiting in the Antwerp Salon in 1873 and in Brussels in 1880, he won the gold medal in 1881 at the Brussels Exhibition. He is best known for his Fountain of Brabo in Antwerp and the colossal relief of the Passion de l'Humanite in the Parc du Centenaire, in Brussels. His famous sculpture The Kiss (1882) was purchased by the Antwerp Museum.