Giovanni Maria Benzoni

Alfonso Panzetta, Nuovo Dizionario degli scultori Italiani dell'ottocento e del primo novecento, G. Canale & C. spa, Borgaro, 2003, fig. 186., p. 145

As visible in the catalogue illustration, the pedestal is not polished and there are chips to the edges consistent with age and use. In between the top and middle section of the pedestals (as visible in the catalogue illustration) there are wooden wedges supporting the top. It is possible that the top was once revolving. The sculpture seems to have no restorations. However, there is some natural pitting to the stone, three on the left foot of the girl and extensive pitting to her chest; they are now blackened by dirt. There is dirt on the top of her head and some black stains on the back left side of the dog, perhaps from rigging. There is a break to the dog's right arm which is held by the girl; there was probably an old break to his elbow which was later filed down resulting in smooth cut down look. He is lacking his fur at this point as a result. Overall in good condition and presentation but should be cleaned.
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.

The present work, La Riconoscenza, was exhibited, together with its pendant group Innocenza difesa dalla fedelta (see the following lot in this sale) at the Crystal Palace Great Exhibition of 1851.

Benzoni studied under Giuseppe Fabri before entering the Accademia di San Luca in Rome in 1828. Equally renowned for his religious work and classical subjects, he executed funerary monuments, architectural sculptures, and portrait busts.

Benzoni was a truly international artist who received commissions from aristocratic families all over the world, from St. Petersburg to Brazil. He carried these out from his studio in Rome. His sculpture was well-known in England after he showed work at the Great Exhibition of 1851, and, as a result, he received many English commissions. He also exhibited at the International Exhibition in Antwerp in 1861 as a representative of the Vatican.