Auguste Moreau

Overall good condition; the surface with minor discoloration in places with areas of rubbing due to touching; the toes of the female figure's proper right foot appear to be replaced; overall with the usual minor scratches and wear; the marble base with minor chips to the bottom edge.
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.

Auguste Moreau was the youngest brother of three celebrated French sculptors. With his two brothers Mathurin and Hyppolyte-François, he learned sculpture under their father Jean-Baptiste as well as at the unavoidable école des beaux arts in Paris. He had two sons, also sculptors, Louis-Auguste and Hyppolyte. Thus making a celebrated dynasty of French sculptors creating thousands of models that can now be found in museums throughout the world. The present sensual group allegorical of dusk or night is believe to have been first created by his older brother Mathurin.