Antonin Mercié

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is minor rubbing to the patina at some of the high points. A few stable original casting joints are slightly visible, including to the proper right lower leg and the proper left upper arm, where there are also a few circular plugs. There are a few nicks, including to the sword and the proper left hand. There are some light abrasions to the patina to some of the folds of the loincloth at the front and back. There is some dark staining to the proper right leg.
"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."

Also known as David Aprés Le Combat, the present model brought Mercié a Medal of the First Class, and the Croix de laLégion d' Honneur, making him the only artist to receive it while still a student. It had been modelled during Mercié's sejourn in Rome at the French Academy and was undoubtedly an extremely bold statement which begged comparison with seminal works of the Renaissance by Verrocchio, Donatello and Michelangelo. Mercié's youthful hero, however, could never be mistaken for a Renaissance work, with its effete charm and overtones of orientalism.