Rembrandt Bugatti

Paul Salathé, France, ca. 1906
Robert Zehil Gallery, Beverly Hills, CA, 1986
Private collection

Jacques-Chalom des Cordes and Véronique Fromanger des Cordes, Rembrandt Bugatti, catalogue raisonné, Paris, 1987, p. 130

Overall in very good condition. The bronze surfaces with a few occasional light surface scratches and gentle rubbing to the patina consistent with age. With scattered traces of minor oxidation on the sculpture and base, including two small areas of oxidation on the underside of the fawn's body and interior hind legs, and traces of oxidation along one of the perimeter side edges of the base (on the front side edge when the deer is facing left). With surface soiling in the recessed contours of the sculpture and base. The bronze surfaces have not been treated in many years, and would benefit from a sensitive cleaning and wax application. Superb color and depth to the rich russet brown patina. A truly endearing work that displays Bugatti's masterful ability in capturing the psychological interaction and gestural interplay between the two animals.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This endearing sculptural group is numbered three of only three bronze casts known to have been executed of this rare model.  Similar to the giraffe offered in the preceding lot, this work is indicative of Bugatti’s early period, when the artist was most intent on evoking the gestural spontaneity of his animalier subjects.  While Bugatti was prolific in his portrayals of deer, this work is undoubtedly one of his most successful achievements of the subject.  Bugatti masterfully captures the tender interaction between mother and fawn.  The tension achieved in the deer’s outstretched neck and mounted legs, and the instinctually receptive posture of the fawn evokes the intimate bond between this mother and her young.  Bugatti’s gestural articulation of the bronze surfaces further adds to the expressive impact of this work. 

Paul Salathé (1861-1941), a notable French collector of Bugatti bronzes, is identified in the Rembrandt Bugatti Archives as the original owner of this work.  The first two casts of this model are presently unknown.  This rare offering represents the first time this model has ever appeared on the auction market.