Ferdinand Barbedienne 1810-1892 A PAIR OF GILT-BRONZE STATUETTES AFTER THE MASTER MODEL BY MICHELANGELO PARIS, CIRCA 1880

the first modelled as a reclining nude female figure with lunar and starry diadem seated with an owl representing Night, the other modelled as a reclining nude female figure unveiled representing Dawn, each signed F. BARBEDIENNE. FONDEUR. to side and stamped REDUCTION MECANIQUE/A.COLLAS/BREVETE surrounding a profile bust to the back.

Overall good condition, with the usual minor scratches, wear and dirt to the gilt-bronze, some minor wear to the marble bases.
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.

These figures are modelled after the original models by Michelangelo, executed between 1520 and 1534 in the Medici Chapel of San Lorenzo, in Florence.  However, they are from different tombs: "Night", seated next to the male figure of "Day"  is taken from the tomb of Giuliano de' Medici; "Dawn", seated next to the male figure of "Dusk" is taken from the tomb of Lorenzo de' Medici, which are across from one another in the chapel and flank Michelangelo's sculpture of the Madonna.