North Italian, second half 16th century

inscribed: 79 in gold paint to the reverse

John R. Gaines (1929-2005), Lexington, Kentucky;
his sale, Morton and Eden London, 21 April 2005, lot 46

A very fine contemporary cast. Overall the condition of the bronze is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few minor nicks and scratches, including to the edges and to the Saint's forehead. The plaquette is pierced at the top. There are remains of a casting sprue on the reverse.
"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
E. F. Bange, Die Italienischen Bronzen der Renaissance und des Barock, vol. II, Reliefs und Plaketten, Berlin, 1922, no. 956; G. Bekker, Europäische Plaketten und Medaillen vom 15. bis zum 18. Jahrhundert, Leipzig, 1998, no. 200; A. S. Norris and I. Weber, Medals and Plaquettes from the Molinari Collection at Bowdoin College, Brunswick, Maine, 1976, no. 362