Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux, 1827 - 1875

M. Poletti, A. Richarme, Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux. Catalogue raisonnée de l'oeuvre édité, 2003, p. 131, n° BU 30.

Overall the condition of this terracotta group is very good with minor surface dirt, particularly in the crevices, consistent with age and handling. Some wheat ears and petals of the crown may have been slightly retouched. There are minor chips and lacks visible on the high points, particularly to the crown, and minor chips along the edges of the base. Highly detailed modeling of the terracotta.
"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."

The subject – also called La République – is an adaptation of La Palombella au collier .The seven terracotta versions modelled during Carpeaux's lifetime – as mentioned in the 1875 inventory - constitute the essential part of this rare edition. A plaster version was given to the Beaux-Arts museum of Valenciennes by Capreaux's widow in 1882 (inv.no. 1917-17); another one was in the Fabius Frères collection (sold by Sotheby's Paris, 26-27 October 2011, lot 226, 54.750 EUR). Our terracotta version - of outstanding quality of modelling - shows some variants with the known plasters such as the wide flowered braids framing the face of the feminine allegory.