French, 16th / 17th century

Overall the condition of the bust is good. There is wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There are some minor chips to the hair, drapery folds and the truncation, including to a lock of hair just above the forehead. There is a larger loss to the truncation at the proper left shoulder. There is an area of naturally occurring small dark veins around the proper right collar bone and a naturally occurring inclusion in the proper right corner of the mouth. Some red pigment is visible at her right cheek, there is a small light brown spot at the nose. There is a small loss to the front corner of the base at the proper right side, the back corner on the proper left side has been reattached. There aer a few minor chips around the lower edge of the base. The bust is attached to the socle with a gesso.
"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."

It has been suggested that this bust has been carved by one of the masters from the School of Fontainebleau.