After a model by Edward Pierce (1635-1695), English, 19th century

Overall the condition is good with some weathering to the surface. There is some greening to the surface including some drops to the head and chest and some spots of dirt to those places. There is dirt in the crevices. The bust is cast in two original sections with a slightly visible casting joint around the neck which is partially open at the right side of the back.
"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 present cast is taken from a model by Edward Pierce (c.1635-1695), who was one of the most talented English portrait sculptors of his generation and a successful stone and wood carver who was employed by many of the leading architects of the seventeenth century, including Sir Christopher Wren. The attribution of the original model to Pierce rests on a similar bronze bust in the Museum of London, which is signed and dated E Pierce 1672. Other unsigned versions include one housed in the National Portrait Gallery and another, which was offered in these rooms on 10th March 1983. It is possible that the model is connected with the mask of Cromwell commissioned in 1655 for his family, now at Chequers.

RELATED LITERATURE
Nicholas Penny, Catalogue of European Sculpture in the Ashmolean Museum: 1540 to the Present Day, vol iii British, Oxford, 1992, pp. 142-3;
Ingrid Roscoe (ed.), A Biographical Dictionary of Sculptors in Britain 1660-1851, New Haven and London, 2009, pp. 961-966