Henri Weigele

Overall in good condition with the usual minor scratches, wear and discoloration to patina being consistent with age and use. Minor dents and nicks in places to surface. Slight traces of dirt. Chip to one tip of cressent moon.
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.

Born in Schierbach, Haut-Rhin, Weigele studied under Jules Francheschi (himself a pupil of Francois Rude). He became a member of the Societaire des Artistes Francais in 1902 and subsequently exhibited at the Salon. Weigele specialized in busts in a combination of marble and gilt bronze such as his bust of Athena, a version of which is in the Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool, while its companion Diana is on display at the New Orleans Museum of Art. Weigele produced a number of variant models of Diana. One example, which depicts the goddess looking to her right, as in the present pose, was sold in these rooms as lot 83 on November 26, 1996 and uses his typical combination of marble and gilt bronze.

Diana, sister to Apollo, was initially known as the protector of wildlife. Later she was known as the moon goddess, Luna, always gracefully depicted wearing a crescent moon as a headdress.