"Les Chevaux de Marly", a pair of patinated bronze figural groups France, late 19th century, after the model by Guillaume Coustou the elder

each inscribed Coustou

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.
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.

This group is a reduced model of the two magnificent Marly Horses by Guillaume Coustou.  The pendants were conceived for the horse pond at Louis XIV's Château de Marly (now the Louvre, Paris).  The pair of monumental marble horses, each restrained by a single man, is one the most iconic images of 18th-century French art.  This model achieved celebratory status especially during the Napoléonic wars and came to be seen as an allegory of France and its glory in war. As such, they have been widely reproduced through the proceeding centuries.