North Italian, 16th century and later

probably with Jacques or Arnold Seligmann & Co., Paris, circa 1900
Christie's London, 8 December 1987, lot 109

There is dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The head and arms are reattached. The top half of the sculpture is reattached to the bottom half at the knees. Restored breaks are visible in these areas. The restored fracture at the top of the proper right arm is slightly open, but is stable, and a stable fracture line is also visible to the boulder in David’s proper right hand where it meets the chest. There are areas of restorations at the face (including to the nose, which is reattached), at the proper left wrist, at the back of the tree trunk, and at the left side of the base. David's proper left heel, Goliath's nose, and one of the toes of David's proper right foot are reattached/ restored. The restoration behind the proper right knee is reinforced with a pin. There are losses to the genitals. There are a few smaller chips and losses, including to Goliath's beard. There is veining to the marble throughout, consistent with the material, and a number of small naturally occurring inclusions. There is a small hole to the top of the head and an iron hook to David's back.
"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."

Despite later alterations, the treatment of the base and torso of the present marble suggest that it was carved by a skilled Italian sculptor from the 16^th century. Representations of David were important symbols of the civic power of Florence in particular. Here Goliath is likely to have been inspired by the head of Goliath on the David by Andrea del Verrocchio, which is also carved with elaborate hair. The current pose of the marble mirrors that of Michelangelo’s David.