Italian, Venice, 16th century

Overall the condition of the bronze is good with wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is rubbing to the gilding on the high points throughout. There is dirt in the crevices including some white pigment in the hair and in the drapery on his proper right side. There are a few minor areas of greening, including to the top of his thighs and to his proper left elbow. There are minor nicks, including an area of nicks to the proper left ankle. There is a lacuna under the drapery between the legs. There are a few smaller lacunae in some of the crevices and in the hair. There is a small hole to the top of the head for a lost halo. There is a small hole between the calf muscles. The bronze is mounted on the base with three nails (one partially lost), and there is a further small hole to the base-plate. There is some minor wear to the base, and there has been a knock to the front left corners. There is a lead weight to the underside of the base and there is also a corner of an old collection label.
"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."

Wixom notes seven variants of this model, which he dates to the 16th century and suggests emanate from a Venetian workshop. All are based on the earlier Tuscan, probably Sienese, model from the Milliken collection in the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Another version of this bronze was sold in these rooms on 9 July 2008, lot 109.

RELATED LITERATURE
W. Wixom, Renaissance Bronzes from Ohio Collections, exh. cat. Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, 1975, no. 32