Christophe Fratin, 1801-1864

mounted as a Trophy for the 1863 Courses de Lamballe [Lamballe Races], the model was originally entitled Grand porte-cigares, tombeau à Jean Nicot [Grand Cigar Caddy, monument to Jean Nicot] in an homage to Jean Nicot, the 17th-century French diplomat and scholar who introduced tobacco plants to Europe from the New World; the caddy is inscribed with a comic dedication from the artist: À Jean Nicot, qui nous apporte le tabac l'an 1560 / Un fumeur reconnaissant, Fratin, 1842 [To Jean Nicot, who brought back tobacco in 1560 / A grateful smoker, Fratin, 1842]

Overall the condition of the bronze is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is minor wear to the patina, including to under the inscription panels. There may have been a finial in the hands of the bears on the lid (there is a hole for a screw).
"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."

The inscriptions on the caddy are semi-legible, but are intended to read as follows:
Dis mois ce que tu fumes, je te dirai qui tu es.
Melle Lenormand

Quand on n'est pas content, on fume.
Théodore Burelle

La gloire, c'est de la fumée, la fumée c'est donc guerre.
Napoléon

L'homme grossier chique, l'homme grave prise,
L'homme d'esprit fume, le viveur seul sait fumer.

The model was sold in the vente Fratin of 1850, no. 233, with reproduction rights. It was subsequently edited by Susse Foundry in Paris; the present cast is one such authorised bronze produced by Susse.