After a model by Giambologna (1529-1608) Italian, late 18th/ early 19th century

by repute acquired through Wilhelm von Bode by the great-uncle of the present owner, North Germany, circa 1900;
and thence by family descent

Overall the condition of the bronze is good, with some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. The bronze is cast in sections, and original stable joints are slightly visible, including to: Deianeira's forearms, the horse's tail, and Deianeira's proper right ankle, where the joint is slightly open but stable. There is also an original bronze insert to Deianeira's proper right ankle. A few original casting plugs are slightly visible, including to Deianeira's proper right shoulder. There is some wear to the lacquer patina, in particular at the high points, and some minor flaking, notably to the front hooves and legs of Nessus. There are a few very minor fissures as the result of casting flaws, including to the inside of the back legs of Nessus. There is some excess metal, probably due to a casting flaw, to Deianeira's proper left leg. There are a few nicks and scratches to the bronze, notably to Deianeira's proper right shoulder blade. The associated bronze base is too light for the bronze group, having caused the group to fall back and to rock forward on the base. The base is warped for this reason, sitting unevenly on a flat surface. There is some dirt and wear to the base, including glue residue and scratches.
"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."

Modelled in 1575-1576, Giambologna’s Nessus and Deianeira proved to be one of Giambologna’s most popular compositions. Deianeira, Hercules’ wife, was seized by the Centaur Nessus while crossing a river and rescued by her hero-husband, who slew the Centaur. Greek myth tells of the poignant consequences of the event, when Deianeira used Nessus’ blood as a love potion on her unfaithful husband, unaware that the poison within would destroy his mortal form. Giambologna created at least three signed bronze versions of the model, indicating the high esteem in which it was held by both the artist and his patrons.

RELATED LITERATURE
C. Avery, Giambologna. The Complete Sculpture, Oxford, 1987, pp. 144-145