- 179
Gustave-Louis Nast
Estimate
15,000 - 20,000 GBP
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Description
- Gustave-Louis Nast
- la danse des oeufs (the dance of golden eggs)
- signed: G. nast
- bronze
Condition
Overall the condition of the bronze is very good with minor dirt and wear to the surface, consistent with age. There are a few more prominent scratches, including to the side of the base, to the back of the proper right thigh and to the proper left shoulder blade, where there may also be some restoration to the patina. There is wear to the nipples and some wear to the gilding. There is some minor staining to the front of the proper right leg. The gilt bronze elements are cast seperately.
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
La Danse des Oeufs is acclaimed as Gustave-Louis Nast’s most successful work. It was first exhibited in plaster at the Salon of 1880, and in bronze the following year, where it was quickly purchased by an admiring collector. Nast made his debut at the Salon of 1852 and continued to exhibit until 1881. La Danse des Oeufs was one of his last submissions and represents his technical development and maturity as a sculptor.
The particular accomplishment of the model lies in the deftly executed composure and poise of the figure. She dances on tiptoes, her bare upper body sinuously curving as she balances an egg on her right index finger. The sculpture is enlivened by the addition of gilt jewels, which hang from the dancer's belt and ears. The model was cast in an edition of two sizes, with the present bronze being of the larger size.
RELATED LITERATURE
E. Bénézit, Dictionnaire des peintres, sculpteurs, dessinateurs et graveurs, Gründ, 1999, vol. x, p. 103