Adèle d'Affry, Duchess Castiglione-Colonna, called Marcello

Overall in good condition. With the usual wear to patina in areas of high reliefs, and on the torso. The bronze plinth has a vertical dent.
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.

Adèle d'Affry was the daughter of the Swiss Count, Louis d'Affry, and the husband of Carlo Colonna, Duke of Castiglione, whom she met in Italy, having moved to Rome in 1854. When her husband tragically died, only eight months after their marriage in 1856, Adèle launched herself into a career as a sculptor, taking on the pseudonym 'Marcello'.

Le Chef Abyssin marks the height of Marcello's achievement as an artist, and was exhibited at the 1870 Salon, in a version made of bronze and white marble. It was purchased by the prominent foundry owner Marnyhac, for 3,000 francs. In 1873 it won a medal at the Universal Exhibition held in Vienna.

A marble version is in the Musée d'Orsay, a plaster version is in the Kunstmuseum in Berne and numerous sketches and paintings in preparation for the bust are preserved at the Fondation Marcello in Fribourg, Switzerland.