A carved limestone figure of Erigone, AFTER CLAUDE MICHEL, CALLED 'CLODION' (1738-1814) of recent manufacture

on carved limestone pedestal

"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."

Erigone was the daughter of Icarius. He was cordial towards Dionysus, who gave his shepherds wine. They became intoxicated and killed Icarius, thinking he had poisoned them. His daughter, Erigone, and her dog, Maera, found his body. Erigone hanged herself. Dionysus was angry and punished Athens with a plague; and caused insanity in all the unmarried women, of whom all committed suicide.

Claude Michel, known as Clodion, was a French sculptor in the Rococo style. He was born in Nancy and went to Paris in 1755. He remained four years in the workshop of Lambert Sigisbert Adam, and became a pupil of J.B. Pigalle. In 1759 he obtained the grand prize for sculpture at the Academic Royale; in 1761 he obtained the first silver medal for studies from models; and in 1762 he went to Rome.