- 1209
Italian, 17th century
Estimate
12,000 - 18,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- Socrates as Silenus
- white marble
- Italian, 17th century
Condition
Overall, the condition of the marble is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. there appears to be some weathering to the surface, and the marble has been subsequently cleaned. There are a few areas of restoration, which are very slightly visible, including to Socrates' proper left wrist, and the bowl in his proper right hand. The proper right boot appears to be restored. There is some veining, consistent with the material. Some veins are slightly open, but stable, including one at the back to the middle of the base. There are several small naturally occurring inclusions to the marble.
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
This extraordinary marble shows the 5th century Athenian philosopher Socrates in the guise of Silenus, companion of the god Dionysos. Throughout his life, Socrates was regarded as an enemy of the Athenian state, and thus ridiculed and satirised. The present sculpture recalls this aspect of Socratic history.
The sculpture is reminiscent of late mannerist Florentine garden sculpture, such as can be found in the Boboli Gardens, and recalls the work of sculptors such as Antonio Novelli (1600-1662) and Domenico Pierratti (1600-1656).
The present marble was formerly attributed to Andrea di Michelangelo Ferrucci (1559-1626) by Carlo Milano in 2008. A copy of his expertise is available upon request.
The sculpture is reminiscent of late mannerist Florentine garden sculpture, such as can be found in the Boboli Gardens, and recalls the work of sculptors such as Antonio Novelli (1600-1662) and Domenico Pierratti (1600-1656).
The present marble was formerly attributed to Andrea di Michelangelo Ferrucci (1559-1626) by Carlo Milano in 2008. A copy of his expertise is available upon request.
RELATED LITERATURE
G. Pratesi (ed.) Repertorio della Scultura Fiorentina del Seicento e Settecento, 3 vols, Turin, 1993