Louis Delaville (1763-1841) French, early 19th century

Overall the condition of the terracotta is good, with some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is a slip to the surface which may conceal some condition points. There are several small lacunae to the terracotta, some with dark fill, including to the drapery around the woman's proper left thigh, to the drapery running from her proper left arm, and to the helmet on the proper right side. There are a few minor chips, including to the edge of the woman's cloak on the proper right side at the back, and to the bottom edge of her skirt, as well as one of the toes on her proper left foot, and to one of the toes on the girl's proper right foot. There are also some chips around the edges and corners of the base. Three of the fingers on the woman's proper left hand may have been reattached. There is a possible loss to a fold of drapery on the stool. There are a few minor dirt marks, notably to the helmet on the proper left side and a toe on the woman's proper right foot.
"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."

Louis Delaville studied in Paris under Boizot and later won the Prix de Rome for his sculpture group, Marcellus faisant embarquer tous les monuments d’art de Syracuse. Delaville thereafter moved to Lens and began to produce figural works in terracotta for which he is most recognized. In this allegorical group, the seated goddess Minerva gestures towards a manuscript on her knee from which a child, following Minerva’s guidance, reads aloud.