Emmanuel Fremiet

C. Chevillot, pp.145-5, S272

T. Bartlett, vol.32, no.805, p.129

Overall in good condition with the ususal minor scratches, wear and discoloration to patina consistent with age and use. Minor dents and nicks in places to surface.
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.

'J'y ai mis tout l'effort artistique dont je suis capable...', confessed Fremiet when discussing his St. George. Chevillot notes that the St. George incorporates many of the most important themes in Fremiet's work. It is in the first instance an equestrian subject, it explores the confrontation and struggle between man and animal, it is set in a medieval period and it displays the greatest attention to detail.
Fremiet initially conceived his St. George only as a small-scale statuette and exhibited it in this 53 cm. size at the Salon in 1891. Although the state offered to buy a 'full-size' example for 2,000 francs, the sculptor had already sold a number of reductions and so offered instead a version of the same dimensions at a price of 800 francs, which was accepted.

It was in preparing for the 1900 Exposition Universelle that the Thiebaut foundry approached Fremiet to cast one of his models life-size as an example of their bronze casting expertise. The St. George was chosen ahead of the Joan of Arc and it was bought by the Ville de Paris to be erected at the junction of the Champs-Elysees and the avenue Alexandre III (it is now in Barentin).