Charles-Henri-Joseph Cordier

There is an original polychromed and gilt artificial patina to the surface, which has rubbed away in areas (particularly at the face, neck and chest). This patina is thick and has creased below the proper left ear. There is particular wear to the gilt patina. There is general dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are some small splashes of paint and some hints of red around the base. Otherwise the condition is good.
"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."

This beautiful bronze bust is a very rare model by Charles Cordier, the great French ethnographic sculptor. Probably conceived during his 1858 soujourn in Greece, the model is very similar to his Greque moderne (of which a fine version was sold at Sotheby's on 10 May 2007, lot 15) and is known only in terracotta as a pair to the sculptor's Mauresque d'Alger chantant (sold at Sotheby's on 21 June 1991, lot 130).

RELATED LITERATURE
L. de Margerie and É. Papet, Facing the Other. Charles Cordier (1827-1905) Ethnographic Sculptor, p. 173, no. 257