Joseph Gott

Skinner Boston, 15 July 2006, lot 695

Overall the condition of the marble is good. There is some minor wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There are some naturally occurring veins visible on the surface, including a larger one that runs along the right side of the torso. There are a few naturally occurring inclusions, including to the nose and to top of the head. There is a chip to the edge of the drapery near the truncation on the proper right side.
"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."

Joseph Gott trained under the Neoclassical sculptor John Flaxman in London between 1798 and 1802. He moved to Rome in 1822, where he established a strong reputation for himself as a sculptor. Gott rejected the austere classicism of his master, Flaxman, and his contemporary, John Gibson, in favour of an elegant romanticism, though with classical overtones. The present bust is characteristic of Gott's work; compare, for example, with the marble relief roundel with a portrait of Mrs John Gott, which was sold at Christie's London on 7 July 1987, lot 143.

RELATED LITERATURE
T. Friedman and T. Stevens (eds.), Joseph Gott, 1786-1860, Sculptor, exh. cat. Leeds City Art Gallery and the Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool, Leeds, 1972, pl. 16