Alessandro Laforêt

Overall, the condition of the bronze is very good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are two small separately cast patches to the front edge. There is some dirt to the crevices. There is a paper label to the back inscribed 56/14 in ink.
"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."

Alessandro Laforêt studied at the Brera Academy in Milan under Francesco Barzaghi and Ambrogio Borghi. Upon his return from a year in Paris, in 1897, he was awarded the Tantardini prize for a marble entitled La cucitrice, which would become his most famous work. In 1902, Laforêt's sketch for a monument to Giuseppe Verdi in Trieste was chosen amongst the 76 competition entries and this fine model is most probably a sketch for the monument, which has stood in Piazza San Giovanni, Trieste, since 1906.

RELATED LITERATURE
F. Franco, 'Alessandro Laforet', Dizionario Biografico degli Italiani, Rome, 2004, vol. 63