- 111
GODEFROID DEVREESE | Thaïs
Estimate
18,000 - 25,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- Thaïs
- signed: G. de Vreese and with a plaque to the base inscribed: THAÏS / G. DEVREESE (1861-1941)
- white marble, on a veined cream and grey marble base
- 97cm., 38 1/8 in. overall
Condition
Overall, the condition of the marble is very good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is some minor veining to the marble, consistent with the material, including to the proper left arm. There are a few naturally occurring inclusions to the marble, including a filled inclusion to the proper left forearm at the elbow and a few inclusions to the drapery around the proper left foot. There are a few darkish marks to a protruding fold of drapery at the height of the knees. There are a few minor chips to the edges of the figure at the bottom where it meets the socle. The veined marble socle is in good condition with some minor chips to the edges.
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
This elegant marble represents the French operatic soprano, actress and author Georgette Leblanc (1869-1941) in the title role of Massenet's Thaïs, which she performed at the Théâtre de la Monnaie. While the model is known in bronze and ivory, versions in marble - like the present sculpture - are exceedingly rare. Note the sensitive treatment of the drapery clinging to the woman's legs. Godefroid Devreese was an accomplished Belgian sculptor. Exhibiting in Paris as well as Belgium, he executed numerous important monuments throughout his native country. In addition to this Devreese travelled widely within Europe and received several prizes during his career, including the Prix de Rome in 1885.
RELATED LITERATURE
M. Marx and C. Engelen, Beeldhouwkunst in België: vanaf 1830, Leuven, 2002, pp. 560-567
RELATED LITERATURE
M. Marx and C. Engelen, Beeldhouwkunst in België: vanaf 1830, Leuven, 2002, pp. 560-567