Mark Matveevich Antokolsky, 1843-1902

This bronze has been displayed outside for an unknown period of time resulting in a greener and more weathered surface patina than originally intended. A few casting plugs are visible and there is some general surface dirt, otherwise the overall condition is good.
"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."

Mark Matveevich Antokolsky (1845-1902) was one of the most talented sculptors to come out of Russia. In about 1888, one Paris correspondent of The Times wrote that even French sculptors would benefit by studying under him, and learning from him the power of the inspiration drawn from the study of nature. Antokolsky was best known for his historical bronze subjects, of which Mephistopehles is an excellent example. Antokolsky was born in Vilna, present day Vilnius, Lithuania and studied at the Imperial Academy of Arts, Moscow from 1862-1868.  From 1868 he lived and worked in Germany, Italy and France.  He sculpted Mephisteopheles in Paris in 1884 which proved to be a very productive period, other works from his Paris years include Spinoza (1881), Yarolslav the Wise (1889), Nestor the Chronicler (1889) and Yermak Timofeevich (1891).
The marble original of Mephisteopheles is currently in the collection of the State Russian Museum, St. Petersburg.