Workshop of Johann Jakob Betzoldt (1621-1707) South German, second half 17th century

carved with bacchanalian putti at play, associated later silver base with Rome townmark and maker's mark

Much overall surface dirt. A triangular section between two putti appears to have been reattached and stabilized with a bandage to the reverse. Numerous fine vertical fissures. The drum is loose from the silver-gilt base which has a slight dent on the rim, and the thin silver rim mount is also loose.
"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."

The present drum can be compared to one in the Staatliche Museen Preussischer Kulturbesitz, Kunstgerwebemuseum, inv.no.K3122 formerly attributed to Leonard Kern and now ascribed to Johann Jakob Betzoldt.

RELATED LITERATURE
H. Siebenmorgen, ed., Leonhard Kern (1588-1662), Meisterwerke der Bildhauerei für die Kunstkammern Europas, exh. cat. Hällisch-Fränkischen Museums Schwäbisch Hall (1988) no. 135