Constant Ambroise Roux

Overall the condition of the marble is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is a restoration to the middle finger on the proper right hand. There is particular dirt in some of the crevices, and there are a few minor dirt marks elsewhere, including around the proper right breast. There are a few minor abrasions, including one to the big toe on the proper left foot, and there are some small chips around the edges of the integral marble base. There are a few naturally occurring inclusions, including to the proper left thigh at the back. There is some wear to the wood base, including minor stable splitting consistent with the material.
"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."

Eve is represented as a beautiful classical figure, resting on the bare ground. Flowers surround her and she stretches her upper body in a gesture of languid ease. Constant Roux has chosen to illustrate the moment before The Fall. The peeping head of a snake to Eve’s left hints at impending doom. It is only when the sculpture is appreciated in the round, that the viewer fully comprehends the threat: the large scaly body of a snake, as long as Eve, coils its way towards her to whisper its malice. Its proximity to her naked body adds quiet menace; its head nearing Eve’s bare breast alludes to Cleopatra, another legendary woman with dangerous influence over men.

Constant Roux was born in Marseilles and studied under Pierre Jules Cavelier and Louis Ernest Barrias. Roux received the Prix de Rome in 1894. He achieved a first class medal at the Salon in 1911 and the Legion d’Honneur in 1923.