Bronze figure bids finish high for eBay seller

Art Business News, August, 2005

SAN JOSE, CA -- eBay, "The World's Online Marketplace," announces a $12,076 sale for a bronze Art Nouveau figure by French sculptor Agathon Leonard, depicting a dancer in a flowing gown and a billowing scarf. The piece was estimated to have been produced in 1900 and is modeled after the famed dancer, Lois Fuller. The sculpture was originally introduced as a table centerpiece at the 1900 World's Fair at the Pavillon de Sevres in Paris. The figure, in near perfect condition, stands 17 inches tall and 13V2 inches wide, and has retained its original patina and gold gilt. The sculpture was signed by Leonard and includes a foundry mark of Susse Freres Paris.

The bidding for the figure started at only $0.02. Throughout the 10-day auction, the price of the rare and valuable item escalated rapidly to $12,076, with only 17 bids. The Ohio seller provided seven photos with close-ups and various angles to the bidding potential buyers.