Nathan David. Apollo/Nureyev 1978

Paintings and sculptures are very difficult to appraise online. It's best to take this to a fine art gallery/museum in your city to see if they can point you in the right direction. I did find a little information about when Rudolph Nureyev danced Igor Stravinski's "Apollo", choreography by George Balanchine: https://nureyev.org/rudolf-nureyev-famous-roles-ballets-index/apollon-george-balanchine-rudolf-nureyev/ And a little about the sculptor, Nathan David: https://artuk.org/discover/artists/david-nathan-19302017 This piece could be something that is very desirable in larger cities where the collectors of ballet memorabilia are or go to acquire, i.e. New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, London, Paris, etc. Interesting piece. Please let me know what you are able to find out!

This bronze statue depicts Rudolf Nureyev as Apollo, a role he famously performed in George Balanchine’s ballet "Apollo." The statue is a limited edition work by Nathan David, a British sculptor known for his realistic and expressive art. The base features markings "N. David" and "Apollo/Nureyev" along with the edition number "1/12," indicating it is the first of a limited series of 12 casts.

Rudolf Nureyev (1938–1993) is considered one of the greatest ballet dancers of the 20th century, making this piece culturally and artistically significant. Its excellent condition adds further value to its appeal.

Estimated Value

Based on similar works by Nathan David and limited-edition bronze sculptures, the statue's estimated value is between $8,000 and $15,000. Factors that influence its value include:

• Limited Edition: Being the first of only 12 casts enhances its rarity.
• Connection to Nureyev: The association with this iconic ballet dancer increases its cultural significance.
• Condition: Its excellent condition ensures a higher valuation.
• Provenance: Any additional documentation or history can further raise its value.

Recommendations

• Preservation: Use a dry or slightly damp cloth for cleaning and avoid abrasive materials. Store in a stable, humidity-controlled environment to protect the bronze patina.
• Appraisal: Have the statue appraised by a reputable auction house or art appraiser. This will provide an accurate valuation and additional documentation.
• Selling or Displaying: If selling, contact specialized auction houses like Sotheby’s, Christie’s, or online art platforms like Artsy or 1stdibs. For display, ensure it is placed in a secure, well-lit area.

Professional Resources for Valuation

Here are some trusted resources to explore further:

• Sotheby’s - Experts in fine art and sculpture.
• Christie’s - Leading auction house for valuable collectibles.
• Bonhams - Appraisers and auctioneers for fine art.
• Artsy - A platform for selling and discovering art.
• 1stdibs - Specialized in rare and high-value items.

I would definitely explore these resources for more insights or to connect with potential buyers.