Albert-Ernest Carrier-Belleuse

Overall the condition of the marble is excellent, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are one or two small chips and abrasions to the drapery and hair. There is naturally-occurring veining to the marble at the hair, comb and proper left side. There are a few slightly-open veins to the socle and a few chips to the edges. There is some wax to the hair at the back.
"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 attractive model, commissioned around 1854 by Henri Ardant, Director of the Limoges Porcelain factory, echoes the mild eroticism of L'Automne - one of the first of Carrier's series of fantasy busts. The present marble is finely carved and is distinguished by its well finished surface, which is in good condition.

RELATED LITERATURE
S. Lami, Dictionnaire des sculpteurs de l'école française au dix-neuvième siècle, Paris, 1914, vol i, p. 284; J. E. Hargrove, The Life and Work of Albert Carrier-Belleuse, New York and London, 1977, p. 217