Italian, circa 1900

The sculpture is a sketch in a fragile material and it is roughly finished and hollowed at the back. There are a few losses to the wax, including to the hair on the proper left side, to the neck on the proper right side, to the proper right ear, and to the proper right eye. There is some craquelure to the wax in several areas, and notably open splits around the proper right eye and cheek. The exposed plaster surface has darkened in areas, including the bottom of the neck. Otherwise the condition is stable. The ebonised wood base is in good condition with some wear to the edges and corners and some scratches.
"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."

for an image of this lot see sothebys.com