Venetian second half 16th century

holding pan pipes in his left hand, with right hand extended, rich brown patina later applied to circular bronze base and wood socle

Eugen Felix Collection, sold J.M.Heberle Cologne, 25-29 October 1886, lot 526

In overall good condition. There is evidence of restoration to the lower back leg where there is evidence of old solder. Rich brown patina worn in part. Minor scratches and dents consistent with age.
"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."

Planiscig attributes the Drey Collection satyr to Andrea Riccio but recent opinion  now places these bronzes in a Venetian workshop of the second half of the 16th century.

Radcliffe records three further versions of this bronze: in the Thyssen Bormemisza Collection, the Louvre and the Abbott Guggenheim collection observing similar grooves on the outstretched arm and alterations to the legs and concludes that they once formed part of a larger entity, possibly a candlelabrum. Two similar satyrs of identical size but different stance have also been noted, one now mounted on a inkwell formerly in the Drey Collection and illustrated by Planiscig, the other holding a shield with the arms of the Capello family which was sold Sotheby's New York, 23 November 1987 lot 75 and now in a private collection.

RELATED LITERATURE
L.Planiscig, Venezianische Bildhauer der renaissance, Berlin, 1919, no 194; L. Planiscig, Andrea Riccio, Berlin, 1927, no 112; A. Radcliffe, The Thyssen Bornemicsza Collection, Renaissance and Later Sculpture, London, 1992, no.24