JOHAN GEORG (GEORGES) BISSINGER (1836-1912)FRENCH, CIRCA 1906 | Cameo with a Bacchante

Michel Duchamp, Paris

M. Duchamp, 'Glyptique', in J. Tulard (ed.), Dictionnaire du Second Empire, Paris, 1994

Overall the condition of the cameo is very good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The mount is in good condition with minor wear and all stones appear to be in place. The pin mount to the reverse is removable.
"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."

Born in Hanau, near Frankfurt, Johan Georg Bissinger moved to Paris to set up his own workshop. He sold a portrait cameo to the Empress Eugénie in 1867, and proceeded to be very successful, winning a gold medal in the Paris Salon in 1877. He further exhibited at the Weltaustelling in Vienna in 1873, the Philadelphia Exhibition in 1876, and most importantly the Exposition Universelle in 1878, where he won both a gold and a silver medal. He retired from engraving soon after 1883. Bissinger's most celebrated works included portraits of living and historical monarchs, most importantly Elizabeth I and Marie de Medici. Bissinger generally signed his works in cursive on the back, as on the present lot, and many of his works are set in jewelled mounts from English workshops.