A Roman Marble Head of a Boy, probably Hermes, circa late 2nd Century A.D.

turned slightly to his right, with parted lips and smiling expression, his unruly curly hair bound in a spiralled fillet mostly visible deep behind the front curls; nose, front of chin, and some curls restored in painted plaster, neck prepared for mounting on a statue or bust.

European private collection, circa 18th Century (based on restoration techniques)
acquired by Mr. and Mrs Redford in the 1970s
by descent to the present owner 

as described, surface weathered and dirty overall, weathering more pronounced on proper right side of back of head, several plaster restorations have fallen off, a small fill in proper left cheek, minor chips and abrasions elsewhere.
"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 head is a copy of the original head type of the following lot. A fine 18th-Century version of the present head type was sold at Sotheby’s, London, December 10th, 2002, no. 140.