Attributed to the workshop of Massimiliano Soldani Benzi (1656-1740), Italian, Florence, 18th century

sold Sotheby's, London, 8th July 1993, lot. 71

A. Gibbon, Bronzes français du grand siècle, Paris, 1985, p. 15, fig. 6

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good. There is minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age and handling, including a few small nicks 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. 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."

Although Soldani also created monumental works, he is celebrated for his small-scale bronzes of mythological subjects and figures after the antique. The present figure of Winter apears to be from a series of the four seasons, a theme which occupied Soldani and his workshop on several occasions. Although the model is not known it can be compared to other small-scale works by Soldani. Note the fluid treatment of the drapery in his Minerva in the Louvre museum, illustrated by Avery (fig.8). The present work was probably created by an artist in Soldani's workshop for a scheme comparable to that which included Soldani's model of Pomona/ Hora of Autumn also illustrated by Avery (fig.4.)

RELATED LITERATURE
C. Avery, 'Soldani's small bronze statuettes after 'Old Master' sculptures in Florence', Studies in European sculpture, London, 1981, pp.165-175