Auguste Moreau

Overall the condition of the marble is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is veining to the marble consistent with the material, including to across Venus' back and proper right side of her abdomen, and there are a few small naturally occurring inclusions, such as in Cupid's legs. Two of Venus' proper left fingers and her proper right index finger are restored. The tips of the arrows held in her proper right hand are lost. The tip of Cupid's bow appears restored. There are some small chips and abrasions to the drapery and edges of the terrasse.
"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."

Auguste was the third son of the painter Jean-Baptiste Moreau and, like his brothers Mathurin and Hippolyte, he became a prolific sculptor of decorative mythological and pastoral compositions. The present marble of Venus and Cupid is an ambitious group. The conventional mythological subject is handled with restraint and elegance and is characteristic of the sculptor's Salon exhibits from 1861.