Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux

with the PROPRIETE CARPEAUX pastille

Overall the condition of the plaster is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. Several original casting joints are visible, including at the proper right thigh and proper right upper arm. There may be a few areas of restoration, including to the toes.
"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."

Ève après la faute was modeled in London in 1871 whilst Carpeaux was in exile from his native France, following the events of the Paris commune. Carpeaux worked on a number of related themes during this period including Ève tentée and Ève chassée du Paradis. Poletti and Richarme have suggested that the themes may have had a personal resonance for the artist as the sculptures correspond to a period of strained relations between the artist and his wife, Amélie.

The model is rarely seen on the market. It was edited in terracotta, bronze, marble and biscuit porcelain, but only two versions in plaster are recorded.

RELATED LITERATURE
M. Poletti and A. Richarme, Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux sculpteur: Catalogue raisonné de l'oeuvre édité, Paris, 2003, no. SE5, p.81