Théodore Rivière

signed THEODORE RIVIERE and inscribed SUSSE F^{RES Ed. Paris,} and with the SUSSE FRERES CIRE PERDUE seal. 

Pierre cadet, Susse frères 150 years of sculpture, ed. Susse Frères, Paris, 1992, p. 45

The silvered surface has been recently cleaned. There are extensive wear to silver patina now showing the yellow color of the bronze alloy in many places but mostly to Salammbo chest, arms and hands, as well as to Matho back, right leg, and throughout the base. There is a crack appearing to the left end side of Matho feet and half leg where this area joints the base. There are traces of old red monochrome to Salammbo necklace and bangle.
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.

Riviere was an architect as well as a sculptor, and studied under François Jouffroy, Alexandre Falguière, and Antonin Mercié. Although themes undertaken by the artist were drawn from allegory, mythology, and history, it was following a visit to Tunisia in 1890 that his irresistible attraction for Eastern subjects began.

The episode is based on Flaubert's novel Salammbo of 1862 and shows Matho kneeling before the priestess. The model was exhibited at the Salon des Artistes Français in 1895 and the Paris 1900 Exposition Universelle. Another version, in gilt-bronze and ivory, is in the Brighton Museum (inv.DA300495).