Italian, 19th century After the Antique

Overall the condition of the bronze is good, with some dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is some rubbing to the lacquer patina at the high points. There are a few light scratches to the patina, including to the proper left underarm and the proper right buttock. There are a few minor dents, including to the proper right thigh, the proper right elbow and shoulder, the proper left foot, and the proper left thigh. The blade of the sword was cast separately and is lost; there may also have been a now-lost attribute in the proper left hand. There are a few stable casting fissures to the bronze, including at the back of the proper left knee, and there is an original bronze insert below the proper left knee. There is some minor dark spotting in areas, including to the buttocks. The wood base is in good condition with some wear, including minor stable splitting and a few nicks to the edges.
"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
F. Haskell and N. Penny, Taste and the Antique, New Haven and Yale, 1981, pp. 221-224, no. 43