Lot 71
  • 71

ALFRED STEVENS | Pair of Caryatids for the Boy Stove

Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • Alfred Stevens
  • Pair of Caryatids for the Boy Stove
  • bronze, mid brown patina
  • 38cm., 15in. each

Condition

There are nicks and scratches to the two bronzes throughout, and notably to the right hand putto's proper left leg. There are a few small lacunae, including to the left hand putto's proper right forearm. There is minor greening in some areas, including at the left hand putto's drapery and the right hand putto's proper left leg and drapery. There are two patches of greyish metal at the right hand putto's back. There is some wax residue to the top of the right hand putto's cornucopia. Otherwise the condition is good, with some further surface dirt and wear. The figures are open at the back.
"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

The present pair of caryatids were part of a bronze, lacquered brass and steel fireplace known as the 'Boy' stove, designed by Stevens for Hoole & Co., Sheffield and exhibited at the Great Exhibition in 1851. The original plaster for one of the figures, and design drawings for the stove, are in the Victoria and Albert Museum (inv. no. 4029-1853). Alfred Stevens, active as a sculptor, designer, and painter, rejected traditional distinctions between fine art and design. As chief designer for Hoole & Co., he produced award-winning designs for metalwork, maiolica, terracotta ornaments and chimney-pieces. Some of his most famous works were decorations for the dining-room at Dorchester House, London, and the monument to the Duke of Wellington for St Paul's Cathedral, London.