Georges Gardet French, 1863-1939

Overall the marble is in good condition. There are some fills to inclusions on the lion's hind leg and a fissure in the mane. There is some surface dirt and minor scratching and rubbing.
"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."

Gardet was an animalier sculptor who used unusually coloured marbles and mixed medias to imbue his sculpture of both domestic pets and wild beasts with a sense of great dignity.  As an early pupil of Frémiet and Millet, Gardet was lauded with medals and awards that culminated in the Grand Prix de l'Exposition Universelle in Paris in 1900, the same year he became an officer of the Légion d'honneur.  Amongst other works, he executed a group of a Panther and a Lion for the Parc Montsouris in Paris (1887) and Tigres intended for the Vaux-le-Vicomte (1900).  Gardet was the foremost successor of the animalier sculptors of the generation prior, including the giants Bayre and Mêne. The present marble of a resting lion has a commanding presence and almost human-like regality that is only enhanced by the beautiful ochre-coloured marble in which it is carved.