Italian, late 17th/ early 18th century

Patricia and William Redford;
their sale, London, Sotheby's, 11 July 2001, lot 123

Overall the condition of the bronzes is good with some dirt and wear to the surfaces consistent with age. The lion's proper right foot appears to have been cast separately and there is a slight fissure behind the knee. There is some rubbing to the high points of the bronzes. There is a small plug on the top of the lion's base.
"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."

These attractive casts compare with an Italian late 17th or early 18th-century bronze lion and lioness pair sold in the Collection Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergé sale, Christie's, Paris, 25 February 2009, lot 382, for 46,600 EUR.