Lot 79
  • 79

Jules-Félix Coutan

Estimate
12,000 - 18,000 GBP
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • Jules-Félix Coutan
  • La Paix (Peace)
  • signed: Jules Coutan and inscribed: Thiébaut Frères / Fumière & Gavignot frs / Paris
  • bronze, gilt patina, and ivory on a green onyx base

Condition

Overall the condition of the sculpture is very good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is some very slight stable splitting to the ivory consistent with the material, in particular to the arms. There are some scratches and abrasions to the ivory, in particular to the arms and leg. There is some dark spotting to the gilt bronze patina. There are some dark marks to the high points of the drapery. There are a few small chips and abrasions to the onyx base. There is veining to the base consistent with the material and some dirt in some of the veins. There are two restored drill holes on the right side 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."

Catalogue Note

Jules-Félix Coutan's highly successful career began with his winning the Prix de Rome in 1871. He contributed to the sculptural decoration of many of Paris' most important buildings such as the Hôtel de Ville and the Palais de Justice, alongside international work including a pediment in New York's Grand Central Station and a monument to Carlos Pelligrini in Buenos Aires. Reduced versions of his allegorical groups secured a lasting private audience for his work. Like Gérôme, Coutan took part in the contemporary vogue for coloured and multi-material sculpture as witnessed in the present gilt bronze and ivory figure.

RELATED LITERATURE
P. Kjellberg, Bronzes of the 19th Century. Dictionary of Sculptors, Atglen, 1994, pp. 227-228