Jean Auguste Dampt

Overall the condition of the marble is very good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few minor nicks, including to the proper left ear. There are some minor abrasions and scratches to the cushion. There are a few small chips to the edges and corners of the cushion and base. The proper right hind paw appears to have been reattached or carved separately.
"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."

Dampt made his debut at the Salon in 1879, having studied at the Écoles des Beaux-Arts in Dijon and Paris. During his long career up until the 1930s he exhibited a wide range of bronzes and marbles, winning the gold medal at the Exposition Universelle in 1889. Although his subjects were mostly human, Dampt appears to have had a penchant for the representation of cats; Bénézit (op. cit.) lists a marble Femme à la gerbe de roses avec un chat.

RELATED LITERATURE
E. Bénézit, Dictionnaire des Peintres, Sculpteurs, Dessinateurs et Graveurs, Paris, 1999, vol. 4, pp. 218-219