Agathon Léonard

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good. There is some dirt and minor wear to the surface consistent with age. There is some dryness to the patina in some of the crevices.
"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."

Agathon Leonard conceived the Danseuse au cothurne as one of a group of eight dancers, exhibited at the Société Nationale des Beaux Art in 1897 as a project for a theatre foyer. These dancers, with their delicate gestures and loose dresses with wide sleeves, became the best-known of Leonard's works. The Susse Frères foundry produced them in gilt bronze. Their catalogue notes that an edition of the entire group as a table centrepiece was presented to the Empress of Russia by the President of the Republic of France.

The present cast is a particularly fine example of the larger size edited by Susse. The surface of the bronze is carefully chased to produce a shimmer-effect of light on the gilding and there are traces of red colouration to the crevices to add warmth to the gold.

RELATED LITERATURE
Kjellberg, pp. 429-35