Lot 18
  • 18

François Léon Sicard

Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 GBP
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Description

  • François Léon Sicard
  • Oedipe et le sphinx (Oedipus and the Sphinx)
  • signed: Sicard, inscribed: F.BARBEDIENNE. Fondeur, numbered twice to the inside: 375, and stamped: VII
  • bronze, gilt patina

Condition

Overall, the condition of the bronze is very good, with minor wear and some dirt to the surface consistent with age. The bronze is cast in sections, and some joints are visible, including to the upper arms. There is some rubbing to the patina at the high points, and there are various minor stains to the surface. There is minor warping to some of the tips of the Sphinx's wings. There are a few small original plugs visible, including to the tops of the arms. There is minor dark spotting to the patina. There are some dirt residues to the sphinx's wings.
"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

Sicard was born in Tours and studied under Félix Joseph Barrias (1822-1907). He presented at the French Salons, gaining an honorable mention in 1887, a second-class medal in 1894, a first-class medal in 1897, and gold medal at l'Exposition Universelle of 1900. Notable works include La convention Nationale in the Panthéon, Paris, and Le Bon Samaritain (1896), in the jardin des Tuileries, Paris. The prime version of the present model is in the musée d'Orsay (inv. no. RF 3308, LUX 204).

RELATED LITERATURE
E. Bénézit, Dictionnaire des Peintres, Sculpteurs, Dessinateurs et Graveurs, Gründ, 1999, vol.12, p. 770