Pierre Traverse

Overall the condition of the marble is very good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The marble is deliberately roughly hewn in areas. The underside is little uneven. There are some minor abrasions including to the proper right arm. There is minor natural veining including a slightly open vein at the proper left wrist. There are a few specks of dirt including to the face.
"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."

Pierre Traverse is well-known for his elegant female nudes, with their strong sense of design and carefully delineated silhouettes. He was a pupil of the sculptor Jean-Antoine Injalbert and exhibited at the Paris Salon and the Salon d'Automne. He was made a member of the Légion d'honneur in 1938. The present nude, with its rounded forms and compact posture, seems also to owe to fellow French artist and famous sculptor of the female form, Aristide Maillol (1861-1944).

RELATED LITERATURE
E. Bénézit, Dictionnaire des peintres sculpteurs dessinateurs et graveurs, Paris, 1999, vol. 13, p. 778