Hippolyte-François Moreau

Private collection, Channel Islands

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good. The bronze has been outside and there is dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The bronze has been cast in sections and there are a number of stable slightly visible casting joints, including to the neck, stem of the flower and back of the figure. There are a number of small casting holes, including to the back of the figure at the chair. There is also a slightly larger hole here and another in one of the leaves on the ground. There is greening throughout the surface. There are a few nicks and scratches, including to the edges of the base. There are remnants of tape around the base, in particular at the title inscription.
"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."

Together with Mathurin and Auguste, Hippolyte François Moreau was one of the three sculptor sons of the painter-sculptor Jean-Baptiste Moreau. The three brothers were enormously successful, producing a great number of models – mostly nudes and genre subjects – which were eagerly collected by wealthy families to decorate their homes. The present bronze captures Hippolyte Moreau in a different mood. The sculpture was conceived as a memorial and the artist treats the depiction with a poignant sensitivity. As a life-size bronze portrait the present work is very rare. The artist faithfully depicts the details of an elaborate late 1870s costume, with its frills, ribbons, buttons and demi-train. However, the subject is not lost amongst the frivolities of the costume, as the artist imbues the whole with a pensive dignity.

RELATED LITERATURE
P. Kjellerg, Bronzes of the 19^th Century, Atglen, 1994, pp. 509-10