Lot 334
  • 334

Jules Félix Coutan 1848 - 1939 A pair of over-life-sized figural torchères

Estimate
150,000 - 250,000 USD
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • Jules Félix Coutan
  • bronze
  • height overall 109 in.
  • 277 cm
each modeled as a classicaly clad female musician, one holding a mandolin, the other a lyre, holding aloft a later gilt-bronze four-light candelabrum. Each figure stamped J. COUTAN to the base, and one with the cast plaque inscribed THIEBAULT FRERES / BRONZES D'ART / 32 AVENUE DE L'OPERA.

Condition

As stated in the cataloguing description, please note that the gilt-bronze candelabra are of modern manufacture and are associated; the female figure with the mandolin is lacking the taborine to her right hand; the bases with drilled holes for wiring; the patina is light brown to dark brown in places; extensive scratches to top of proper left forearm to figure with lyre; scratches as well to figure's proper right arm; dirt in crevices of the casting; the figure with the mandolin with the same dirt to crevices of casting and showing both seams at upper arms.
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.

Catalogue Note

Coutan had a highly successful career as a sculptor and designer, which began with his winning the Prix de Rome in 1871 whilst studying under Pierre-Jules Cavelier at the École des Beaux-Arts. He went on to contribute to the sculptural decoration of many of Paris' most important buildings, such as the Hôtel de Ville and the Palais de Justice. His international portfolio included a pediment in New York's Grand Central Station and a monument to Carlos Pelligrini in Buenos Aires. He was Director of Design at the Sèvres Porcelain factory in the 1890s, before replacing Falguière at the Académie des Beaux-Arts in 1900.

This lot, a symbolic representation of Music, falls within his allegorical oeuvre and also clearly reflects his time at and interest in sculpture as decoration while director of the Sèvres factory.