Ferdinand Preiss (1882 - 1943)

gilt bronze, ivory and marble, modelled as a naked young woman seated on a rock, a dove in one hand, another at her feet

This figure illustrated, Alberto Shayo, Ferdinand Preiss, Art Deco Sculptor, The fire and the flame, Woodbridge, 2005, p.97.

A decorative piece of good overall appearance. There are minor traces of varnish on the face of the figure. Minor old marks, scrathces and wear consistent with age. There is a crack in the ivory down her stomach to the top of her left thigh, visible in the catalogue illustration. There are some traces of re-gilding to the base and a small plugged hole at the front of the base which could be constructional or may suggest that an element may be lacking. Please note that this lot contains ivory which may be subject to export and import restrictions. For example, ivory cannot be imported into the United States. Your attention is drawn to the Endangered Species section in the Guide for Prospective Buyers at the back of the catalogue (Section 4).
"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."