Lot Details
Description
MARTHE SPITZER
French
1877-1956
BUST OF CLAUDE DEBUSSY
signed: Marthe. Spitzer and inscribed: ALEXIS. RUDIER. / FONDEUR. PARIS.
bronze, dark brown patina, on an onyx base
57cm., 22½in. overall
Condition Report
Overall the condition of the bronze is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is minor rubbing to the patina at the high point including to the tip of the nose and the beard. Some dust and minor greening in the crevices of the hair.
A few small chips to the edges and corners of the onyx base.
"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."
Cataloguing
Catalogue Note
After exhibiting the bronze of the bust of Debussy in bronze at the Paris Salon in 1921, the French state comissioned a version in marble. This was placed in the Opéra Comique in Paris, where it is still visible today.