John Gibson

Overall the condition of the marble is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is weathering to the surface consistent with placement outside, in particular to the top of the head. The bust is attached to the socle with a discoloured adhesive which is visible at the sides and the back. There are areas of orange staining to the ends of several locks of hair, probably due to restorations, notably a larger area at the back and another to the proper right side behind the ear. There is veining to the marble consistent with the material, including a vein to the proper left shoulder, and a white vein or inclusion at the bridge of the nose. There are a few naturally occurring inclusions, including several to the chest, to the forehead, and further inclusions to the proper left eyebrow, eyelids and cheeks. There is a loss to the truncation of the bust at the proper right side at the front. There are a few minor nicks and scratches, including to the face, and there are several chips and abrasions, in particular to the edges of the truncation. A small loss to the proper left shoulder and another to the truncation at the front have been filled. There are some minor chips to the edges of the marble socle.
"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."

This serene bust of Cupid relates closely to the Cupid commissioned by Sir Watkin Williams Wynn in 1826, which was sold in these rooms on 5 December 2007, lot 84. The idealised symmetrical face and the arrangement of the hair is near identical to the Cupid and it is likely that the present bust is derived from this model. Throughout his distinguished career Gibson took heads from his full body figures, turning them into elegant busts; the present marble appears to be one such example.