An Italian white marble écorché bust of a male, signed Carmine Genua F. Roma, 1882

carved to show the skin removed, revealing the musculature, veins, tendons and vessels, with two flies perched on his head

Execution is very good. Condition of bust itself overall is very good. Surface is generally good and old and has not been overly treated. However it does have some mostly minor ingrained dirt which could only be completely removed with a thorough cleaning which could alter the colour and texture of the surface. No chips or repairs to the bust itself. Chips and repairs to the socle. The major repair to the socle could be professionally restored and much improved. If requested we can ask the opinion of a professional restorer for advice on cleaning and restoration.
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.

Carmine Genua was a Sicilian artist active in Rome.  The date on this bust shows it to be one of his earliest works; he is recorded exhibiting in Milan in 1881 and 1883, and the latter could certainly have included this piece.  In 1888 he did a bust of Garibaldi, in 1889 he showed a figure of "Youth" and two portraits in Rome, and he carved two busts of politicians for the Chamber of Deputies of the Italian Parliament.  Genua was known for portraits and funerary monuments, two currents that come together in the offered work.