Circle of Giuseppe Sanmartino (1720-1793) Italian, Naples, second half 18th century

Overall the condition of the marble is very good with dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is naturally occuring veining throughout the marble including to the left putto's proper right chest, face and proper left shoulder, proper right arm and drapery. There are some naturally occuring inclusions, including in the left putto's proper right buttock and leg, proper left leg, proper right arm and to the right putto's stomach. There is a slightly dirty, stable naturally occurring fissure in the right putto's proper right chest. There are a few small areas of metallic paint particularly in the left putto's proper right armpit and breast. All of the fingers on the right putto's proper left hand and the middle two fingers of the proper right hand have been restored. There are a few chips to the floral diadem held by the left putto and some chips to the flower held by the right putto. The condition of the base is good with a few chips and scratches to the edges.
"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."

Similar groups of putti with inlaid bases have traditionally been associated with Giuseppe Sanmartino. Compare other allegorical groups sold at Christie's London, 10 December 1996, lot 73 and another sold at Sotheby's London, 13 December 1991, lot 254. See also Sanmartino's putti with the Instruments of the Passion in the Certosa di San Martino in Naples, published by Fittipaldi.

RELATED LITERATURE
T. Fittipaldi, Scultura Napoletana del Settecento, Napels, 1980, fig. 374; E. Catello, Giuseppe Sanmartino (1720-1793), Napels, 2004