A large French patinated bronze model of the Colonne Vendôme after the design by Denon, Gondouin and Lepère 19th century

 

Some balusters of top slightly bent. With some scuffs, minor scratches and light rubbing. Eagle figures loose. In otherwise good condition.
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.

The present lot is a reduction of the celebrated monumental bronze column which was erected to the glory of Napoleon I in the Place Vendôme, Paris. Constructed between 1806-1810, it was designed by Denon, Gondouin and Lepère in the style of Trajan's Column of Rome. It is encased in the bronze of cannons which had been captured at the Battle of Austerlitz (1805) and the spiral bronze bas-relief, commemorating Napoleon I's victories, was created by Bergeret. The column was originally surmounted by a statue of Napoleon dressed as Caesar, crowned with a laurel leaf and holding a globe in one hand; replaced during the Restauration with a likeness of Henry IV, this was then removed when Napoleon returned from Elba. Later, on the instruction of Louis-Philippe, the statue was replaced by the figure of Napoleon dressed as seen on the offered lot, wearing a coat and his famous bi-corn hat. Napoleon III later altered the monument to its original form showing Napoleon clad as Caesar. A comparable model was sold Sotheby's London, From the Collection of Prince and Princess Henry de la Tour d'Auvergne Lauraguais, May 3, 2012, lot 78.