Italian, Venice, early 17th century

Overall the condition of the bronze is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few small lacunae, including between the feet, to the right of the proper left leg and to under the proper left buttock. There are a few very minor casting flaws, including a short pour to the protruding corner of drapery above the feet, and some smaller lacunae and flaws to the drapery, including to the back. There are a few small spots of greening to some crevices, and some patches of dirt to the legs. There are minor chips to the wood base, and a new wood plug to the underside.
"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."

The present bronze is compositionally similar to the model of Mercury associated with Girolamo Campagna (1549-1625), of which there is cast in the Bode Museum (inv. no. 7301). The facture, however, is more reminiscent of bronzes by Niccolò Roccatagliata (circa 1560 - circa 1636).

RELATED LITERATURE
V. Krahn, Bonzetti Veneziani. Die venezianischen Kleinbronzen der Renaissance aus dem Bode-Museum Berlin, Berlin , 2003, pp. 148-149, no. 37