Cecil de Blaquiere Howard

Overall, the condition of the plaster is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The torso is a studio plaster and cast in sections; original stable joints are slightly visible, in particular down the sides and abdomen. There are a few areas of plaster fill, in particular to the pectorals, the upper abdomen, the arms at the back and the upper back. There are various minor nicks and scratches. There are some minor chips to the edges at the arms and the neck. There is particular dirt to the base. There are a few small chips and abrasions to the base. There is a larger loss to the proper left side of the base. The patina is variated, with some yellowish cream areas in particular to the back. There are a few flecks of paint and dirt in a few areas. There is a possible restoration, including around the neck. There is a slightly rough area to the inner proper left thigh.
"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."

'Other sculpture includes a startling carved stone Torso by Cecil Howard', New York Times,‎ October 24, 1937

The Burgundy stone version of this dynamic model was displayed in the American Pavillon at the 1937 Paris Exposition Universelle, and was awarded a Grand Prix. The twist in the upper torso creates a particularly engaging study, which recalls antiquities such as the Belvedere Torso in the Vatican Museums and the Barberini Faun in the Glyptothek, Munich, refer F. Haskell and N. Penny, Taste and the Antique, New Haven and London, 1981, pp. 202-205, 311-314, nos. 33, 80.