Prosper Lecourtier

Pierre Kjellberg, Bronze of the 19th Century, ed. Schiffer Publishing LTD, USA, 1994, p.420, (for the illustration of an identical model)

In overall good condition. Extensive wear to both ends and top of the horse tail. The bronze figure will need to be tightened back to the marble base. There is some wear to the brown patina to the left front leg of the horse as visible in the catalogue illustration. The gun strap is lacking. There is a minor crack to the back of the warrior's waist.
"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."

Prosper Lecourtier studied sculpture under Jules Coutan and the celebrated animalier sculptor Emanuel Frémiet. He exhibited at the Salon almost every year from 1875 to 1924 and was awarded a bronze medal at the 1900's Exposition Universaelle de Paris. He is known to have collaborated with Hippolyte Moreau and some works are signed by both artists. On the present model, it is interesting to note the composition of the bronze group and it's base. Here, the dynamic galloping figure is fitted on a naturalistically carved rouge griotte marble base.