Émile-André Boisseau

Overall the condition of the marble is good with dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The baby's proper right little finger is lost. There are restorations to the object in the girl's proper left hand and possibly a loss to the top of the object. There are some black marks to the woman's 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."

Boisseau studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, under Augustin-Alexandre Dumont and Jean-Marie Bonnassieux. The sculptor was well known for his graceful groups of women and children. His most celebrated group was his Le Crépuscule, which shows a winged personification of Dusk sheltering two sleeping putti. It was exhibited at the Salon in 1870 and won the prestigious gold medal, before being purchased for the Élysée Palace.  

RELATED LITERATURE
E. Benezit, Dictionnaire critique et documentaire des peintres sculpteurs dessinateurs et graveurs, Paris, 1999, vol. 2, p. 476