Italian, Venice, second half 12th century

There are chips and abrasions, weathering, and dirt to the surface throughout, consistent with age and placement outdoors. There are a few losses around the edges and the dental moulding framing the relief. There are further losses to the carvings, including to both heads of the birds in the central section and to the beak of one of the birds in the top section. Otherwise the condition of the relief is stable. There is some staining and corrosion to the metal stand.
"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."

RELATED LITERATURE
A. Rizzi, Scultura esterna a Venezia. Corpus delle sculture erratiche all'aperto di Venezia della sua laguna, Venice, 1987, pp. 157, 288, 403, 660