Christie's London, 13 December 1994, lot 170

Overall the condition of the bronzes is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surfaces consistent with age. There is some rubbing to the patina at the high points, including the noses and the truncations around the stomachs. There are also a few scratches to the truncations at the bottom, and further scratches to the top left side of the background of one of the roundels. There is also some dark staining around the bottom of this roundel. There is some whitish residue to a few of the crevices around the bottom of one of the roundels. The gilt metal frames are in good condition, with some dirt and wear consistent with age, including a few moisture stains.
"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."

RELATED LITERATURE
A.L. Poulet and G. Scherf, Clodion 1738-1814, exh. cat. Musée du Louvre, Paris, 1992, pp. 182-183 and p. 457, fig. 263