Italian, 16th century

Overall the condition of the marble is very good. There is some minor wear, weathering and dirt consistent with age. A joint is visible at the lion's manes on the right side, which has caused a loss to the right toe of the lions right paw and which seems to continue at Hercules' left forearm. There are some minor chips, particularly to Hercules' toes, the rocky base near the lion's right hind leg and the nuckle and middle finger of Hercules' right hand. There are some minor inclusions to Hercules' right leg and left elbow. There are some traces of brown pigment to the base and back of the fiure
"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."

In ancient mythology, the slaying of the Nemean lion was the first of Hercules' twelve labours. The present marble statue, probably originally intended for a garden, shows the ancient hero stepping over the defeated lion in a wide stride. In a dramatic way, he is shown about to kill the lion by both turning his head upside down, and at the same time strecthing apart his jaws. One wonders if the crack of the breaking spine or that of the jaws will be heard first. But the lion is not defeated yet, since the lion raises his right frontal paw in pain. The concentration of the action on Hercules opening the lion's jaws follows a visual formula frequently employed in the middle ages for depictions of Samson victorious over the lion, but it gives it an original twist by pushing the battle to its limits.