South German or Italian, 17th century

Sotheby’s London, 6 April 1995, lot 41

Overall the condition of the bronze is good. There is wear and some minor dirt to the surface consistent with age. The gilding is worn in areas, including the eyebrows and nose, forearms and hands, and knees of Mary Magdalen and the arms and legs of the caryatid putto. There is tarnishing in the crevices. There are some areas of scratching, including to the left puttos right foot and Mary Magdalen's shins. The group was cast in sections and joined together; one original joint is visible to the left upper leg of Mary Magdalen. The reverse of May Magdalen and the putti is roughly finished and ungilt, exposing several original casting pins and sprues. The hollow backs of the figures have been partially filled wih composite stone. There are two brackets for mounting soldered on to the reverse.
"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."