North German, late 17th/early 18th century

wearing a lace cravat, his shoulder with billowing drapery

This impressive bust exhibits wear consistent with having been exposed to the elements which includes some chips and losses to drapery. Some discoloration and loss to painted surface.
"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."

What distinguishes this impressive stone bust is the intricate drapery carved with opulent folds and which is ultimately drawn from Roman High Baroque portraiture.  It emanates from a North German workshop working within the circle of Balthasar Permoser (1651-1732). Having worked in Rome and Florence in the Granducal workshops (circa 1677), Permoser was to have a profound influence on the hitherto conservative and solid portrait sculpture which had been produced in North German workshops. Upon his return to Germany he was made court sculptor to the Saxon court in Dresden. Note the bust of Herzog Anton Ulrich von Braunschweig -Wolfenbuttel in the Herzog Anton Ulricj-Museum illustrated by Rasmussen.

It has been suggested that the present bust is a portrait of Johann Georg III of Saxony, who died in 1691.

RELATED LITERATURE
Europaische Barockplastik am Niederrhein, Grupello und seine Zeit, exh. cat. Kustmuseum Dusseldorf, 4 April-20 June 1971; J. Rasmussen, Barockplastik in Norddeutschland, exh. cat. Museum für Kunst und Gewerbe (Hamburg, 1977) no.7