Aimé-Jules Dalou

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good. There is some minor wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age with some dust in the crevices. There are a few minor scratches to the patina including to the reverse of the seat and proper right shin.
"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."

Dalou was fascinated with the subject of the female nude and worked and re-worked a series of models depicting nudes in guises typical of the genre, such as before and after the bath, towelling themselves, standing bending down, or seated, taken by surprise or removing their stockings. They were more intimate sculptures than his studies of labourers and were never exhibited publicly at the Salon. The original terracotta sketch for the present model is housed in the Petit Palais, Paris (inv.no. 343).

RELATED LITERATURE
P. Fusco and H. Janson, The Romantics to Rodin, exh. cat. Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 1980, pp.190-91, nos.71-2