North Italian, early 16th century and later

each with Trinity inventory labels to the underside: 6108 / 1/3; 6108 / 2/3; 6108 / 3/3

London, Trinity Fine Art Ltd, An Exhibition of Sculpture and Works of Art, 1988, no. 9 (mortar with profile portraits)

Overall the condition of the mortars is good with dirt and wear to the surfaces consistent with age. There is rubbing to the surfaces throughout. Various minor nicks and scratches. There is greening to the mortar with lion mask, and fissures to the underside throughout. There is a large short pour to the top rim of the mortar with dolphins, and there has been a knock to one of the horse heads. There are various minor casting flaws to each of the mortars.
"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
J. Pope-Hennessy, Renaissance Bronzes from the Samuel H. Kress Collection, London 1965, p. 154, no. 565, fig. 593; U. Middeldorf, Fifty Mortars. A Catalogue, Florence, 1981, pp. 88-91, no. 22