Circle of Luigi Valadier (1726-1785) Italian, Rome, second half 18th century

Overall the condition of the bronze is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few very minor casting flaws. There is dirt to some of the crevices, particularly in the hair, where there are traces of a green substance.
"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."

This fine bust is conceptually and stylistically similar to the bronze and alabastro a rosa herm bust of Bacchus by Luigi Valadier in the Villa Borghese, Rome (inv. no. CXXXXV). The bust is believed to have been made by Valadier when he was working for Prince Marcantonio Borghese (1730-1800) between 1773 and 1774. It was designed for the family's magnificent palace in the Campo Marzio, before being installed in the Villa Borghese. The facial type, with long nose and narrow chin, witnessed in the present bronze finds another parallel in Valadier's St Rosalia from the Cathedral of Monreale (c. 1770-1773)

RELATED LITERATURE
A. González-Palacios, Two Candelabra by Luigi Valadier from Palazzo Borghese, Metropolitan Museum Journal, 1995, pp. 97-98; I. Faldi, Galleria Borghese. Le sculture dal secolo xvi al xix, Rome, 1954, p. 18, no. 13; Valadier. Three Generations of Roman Goldsmiths, exhib. cat. Artemis Group at David Carritt Ltd, London, 1991, fig. a.3, pp. 156-7