Émile-Coriolan-Hippolyte Guillemin

Overall the condition of the bronze is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age, with dust in the crevices. There is some wear to the patina, including rubbing at the high points. There are a few areas of light scratching, including around the breasts. There are a few moisture stains, notably to the face. There is some minor greening to the truncation at the back. The socle and the column are in good condition with minor wear, including small chips around the edges. There is some white residue to the top of the column's shaft. The column is composed of three sections.
"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."

Guillemin was one of the most prolific and successful French Orientalist sculptors. He exhibited regularly at the Paris Salon, where from 1877 he submitted works on exclusively Orientalist themes. His first example in this genre was the marble and bronze bust of the Femme Mauresque which initiated a series of busts of beautiful Oriental women. His approach to his subjects was not simply decorative and, as in the work of Charles Cordier, Guillemin went to great lengths to ensure the ethnographic accuracy of the costumes and physiognomies of his busts.