A Marble Portrait Head of the Tragedian Sophocles, circa late 1st/early 2nd Century A.D.

based on a 4th Century B.C. Greek original, with deeply drilled wavy beard, long moustache, deep-set eyes drilled in the inner corners, and hair bound in a fillet; mounted on a 17th/18th Century variegated colored marble draped bust.

French family collection, Normandy, 19th Century

Nose restored in marble, rims of ears chipped, hair and beard somewhat weathered and with remains of incrustation, surface of neck and face has been vigorously cleaned without obscuring details, various chips and scratches.
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.

For other examples see G.M.A. Richter, The Portraits of the Greeks, vol. 1, London, 1965, figs. 611-674 (Farnese Type); the author notes that the distinguishing features of the Greek original are "a rounded skull, not unduly high, regularly surrounded by a taenia; an oval form of face, accentuated by the longish beard; hair arranged in slightly curling, rather sparse, ringlets over the forehead; ... raised, almost angular... eyebrows; a slightly curvingnose, thin at the bridge; and a beard starting immediately below the lip, with locks going in different directions; a long moustache reaching far into the beard. The person represented is about 60 years old, serene, artistically sensitive, a great personality" (p. 128).