Jean-Léon Gérôme

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good with some minor wear to the patina and dirt in the crevices, consistent with age. There is a remnant of a label to the side of the base.
"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."

Exhibited at the Salon of 1899, Gérôme's Frederick the Great was the third in his series of equestrian figures of great men which began in 1897 when he exhibited his Napoleon Entering Cairo (see lot 167). Ackerman has called the Frederick the Great 'the most remarkable of the series for the fineness of its detailing.' Like the other sculptural groups from the last decade of Gérôme's life, the model was cast by the newly set up foundry, Siot-Decauville: established 1890. The casts produced by the foundry excelled in sharp details and subtle colouration, both of which are brilliantly show-cased in the present bronze.

Frederick the Great, King of Prussia (1712-1786) is best known for his military victories. As King he attacked Austria and claimed Silesia for Prussia, later annexing the disconnected territories of his realm through the First Partition of Poland. Despite his reputation as a warmonger, during his early life he was most closely concerned with the arts. For many years he was a correspondent of Voltaire and he was an accomplished flautist, composing a number of sonatas and symphonies for the flute.

RELATED LITERATURE
G. Ackerman, The Life and Work of Jean-Léon Gérôme, Paris, 1986, no. S.48, pp. 147-54 & 324