A monumental Sevres biscuit figure, Le Paysan (paysan relevant sa manche) Dated 1913

after Jules Dalou, depicting a weary harvester, standing rolling up his sleeve, simply dressed and wearing clogs 

good condition
"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."

This model (and a companion figure of a peasant digging) were based on first-hand sketches by Jules Dalou for a large-scale ambitious work 'Monument to Labour', intended to glorify the humble working man.  The group remained unfinished at the sculptor's death in 1902, however a full-size bronze of this model Grand Paysan, approximately 78 inches tall, was exhibited at the Salon of the same year. It was acquired by the Louvre in 1905 and is now at the Musée d'Orsay.  Both figures were recreated in stoneware by the Sevres factory at around the same time. A stoneware example of the model, dated 1904, is in the Musee National Adrien Dubouche, Limoges, see the guide to the collections by Chantal Meslin-Perrier, 1992, p.66 and p. 73.  Dalou was an important sculptor of the naturalist school in late 19^th century France.  He was also an influential figure in the British art world as he spent eight years in exile in London during the 1870s and taught at the South Kensington School of Art (precursor to the Victoria and Albert Museum)