Italie XVIIIème siècle, d'après Giambologne Mercure volant,

 Ce bronze aérien est une réduction d'après le modèle grandeur nature exécuté par Giambologna en 1580, destiné à surmonter la fontaine des jardins de la Villa Médicis à Rome (aujourd'hui au musée du Bargello). Le messager des dieux, les chevilles ailées, coiffé du pétase, tient le caducée symbolisant le commerce et l'éloquence et pointe le doigt vers les cieux. Mercure est porté par le souffle de Zéphyr sur lequel il se tient en équilibre.

Ch. Avery & A. Radcliffe, Giambologna 1529-1608, Sculptor to the Medici, Londres, 1978

Very good condition overall with casting joints visible to both shoulders, especially to his proper right shoulder with two connecting plugs visible, also to Mercury's upper thighs. Minor wear to the patina consistent with age and handling, a few minor scratches to the surface at several places. The caducee cast separatly screwed to the handle. A fine horizontal fissure visible where Mercury's foot is attached to the bronze base. A few minor chips the edges of the marble base with some minor lacks and marble veining. Some minor oxydation to the giltbronze mount. Very attractive bronze, crisp cast with dark brown patina.
"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."