- 31
Jean-Baptiste, called Auguste Clésinger French, 1814-1883
Estimate
12,000 - 18,000 USD
bidding is closed
Description
- Jean-Baptiste, called Auguste Clésinger
- Hélène
- inscribed F. BARBEDIENNE Fondeur Paris and numbered 434 and with the Achille Collas seal, the plaque engraved 28 SEPTEMBRE 1883 / EXPOSITION D'AMSTERDAM
- bronze, viel or patina
- height 34 1/2 in.
- 87.5 cm
Exhibited
Amsterdam Exposition of 1883
Literature
Alexandre Estignard, Clésinger: sa vie, ses oeuvres, Paris, 1900, pp. 84 & 166, fig. 88.
Condition
Overall in good original condition with the usual wear to the patina in places especially to high reliefs of the composition and such consistent with handling, touching, and cleaning. Light scratches consistent with age. Visible dirt to crevices. Original and rare old gold patina from Clessinger workshop.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
With Helen of Troy, Clesinger has chosen to concentrate on both the elegant folds of classical drapery which surround the figure and the calm reflective gesture of Helen, rather than emphasise the sensuality of his subject, as might have been expected from the sculptor. The modest display of Helen's right breast is the only concession to Clesinger's natural tendency towards eroticism. The art critic Théophile Gautier desribed Clesinger's Helen of Troy as "a masterful representation of the great mythological beauty". Helene of Troy was first exhibited with great acclaim at the Paris salon of 1864.