JEAN BOUCHER | Venus and Cupid

Overall the condition of the marble is very good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. Venus’ proper left thumb is reattached. There is natural veining to the marble throughout. The veining takes the form of slightly visible whitish veins running in different directions throughout. There is also some darker natural veining. There are a few small chips around the edges of the 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."

Jean Boucher was a student of several important French sculptors of the 19th century, including Chapu, Falguière and Mercié. He was mostly known for his Romantic sculptures, and exhibited frequently at the Paris salon. He received several medals and awards for his sculptures, and was made an officer of the Légion d'honneur in 1914. Public works by Jean Boucher include a monument to Victor Hugo on Guernsey.  A few versions of the present composition have appeared on the market in the past decades. Firstly, a signed bronze of the model, formerly in Whixley Hall, North Yorkshire, was sold at Phillips, 30 November 1994, lot 142. Variations in marble, both unsigned, as is the present lot, were sold in these rooms on 26 November 1996, lot 174, and at Christie's, 15 May 1997, lot 431. The present marble is a fine example of Boucher's accomplished Romanticism. 

RELATED LITERATURE
E. Bénézit, Dictionnaire des peintres, sculpteurs, dessinateurs et graveurs, vol. 2, Grund, 1999, p. 625