Attributed to Richard James Wyatt (1795-1850), English, first half 19th century

Anthony James & Son, early 1980s

Overall the condition of the marble is good. There is some minor wear and dirt consistent with age including a minor abbrasion to the tip of the nose. There is some light yellowish naturally occurring veining visible on the surface including at the proper right shoulder and running from the proper left side of the chest up to the proper left side of the neck. There is a small area with dirt and restorations to the wreath on the proper left side of the head. One of the flowers in the wreath near the temple on the proper left side has been replaced and one of the petals of one of the large flowers on the opposite side is lost.
"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 classical charm and finely carved features of the present bust are characteristic of Richard James Wyatt's work. The bust probably derives from the Flora and Zephyr at Nostell Priory, West Yorkshire. Compare also the signed Flora sold at Christie's London on 10 December 1991, lot 67.

RELATED LITERATURE
J.M. Robinson, The Wyatts. An architectural dynasty, Oxford, 1979, pp. 168-69