the classically draped goddess seated in a conch sell pulled by a dolphin and surrounded by tritons and nymphs, set within a later gilt-bronze frame.  

Collection of Consuela Vanderbilt, by repute

RELATED LITERATURE

A. Poulet and G. Scherf, Clodion (1783-1814), exh.cat., Musée du Louvre, Paris, Mꦦarch 17-June 29, 1992, pp. 180-187, 405-413, cat.no♕. 29.

M. P. Worley, 'Marin, Joseph-Charles', Grove Art Online, Oxford Univeristy Press, 2007.

Minor chipping/wear around edges and minor losses/abrasions to the surface. Chips to upper right and left corners. There is craqueleur throughout on the front surface. Remainders of some slip or polychromy (ochre-colored) on surface. Beautifully worked.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Although unsigned, this terracotta is analagous to one signed Marin which was sold ๊at Christie's London, December 13, 1985, lot 35. Compare the similar style o𓆉f drapery, placement of the figures, and treatment of the hair and facial features, including the goddess' profile.  The waves in both reliefs are, in particular, seemlingly modelled with the artist's thumb and embellished with tools.

As a student of Clodion, Joseph-Charles Marin became an impressive artist in his own right producing portrait busts, bacchic groups and figures in a variety of media and exhibiting frequently at the Salon from 1791 to 1833.  While Clodion's work is more precise and formal, Marin is known for greater realism, expression and texture.  The present lot may be inspired by the marble relief by Clodion of The Triumph of Galatea (or the Triumph of Amphitrite), made for l'Hôtel de♛ Bouret de Vézelay (also known as l'Hôtel de Sainte-foy) in Paris around 1775. 💖