Attributed to Gaetano Gandolfi (1734-1802) Italian, Emilia-Romagna, 18th century

Overall the condition of the terracotta is very good. There is some minor wear and dirt consistent with age. There are some minor firing cracks particularly where the clay was joined between the drapery and the body. The two front corners of the base have been restored and display minor cracks and chips. There is a large restored chip where the hair flows into the drapery at the back. There is a chip to the drapery at the proper right side of the figure at the heigt of the knee. There are three deep holes along the back used for mounting.
"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 attribution to Gandolfi, who was much more famous as a painter, is based upon comparisons with terracotta figures such as Mary Magdalene from the Pietà in Bologna, Santuario di San Luca.

RELATED LITERATURE
D. Biagi Maino, Gaetano Gandolfi, Turin 1995.