A Roman Marble Torso of Eros, circa 2nd Century A.D.

probably from a group showing the young god subduing an opponent, poised with the weight on his right leg, his left leg formerly raised, and wearing a quiver on his back, the strap slung over his right shoulder and across his chest; Thasian coarse-grained marble, no restorations.

Nicolas Koutoulakis 1910-1996), Galerie Segredakis, 4 Rue de l'Echelle, Paris
the architect and industrial designer Paul Mayen (1918-2000), New York, acquired from the above on March 6th, 1987
acquired from the above by the present owners

Fragmentary as shown. Lower part of the quiver on the back missing, upper part chipped. Chips and abrasions consistent with age.
"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 dynamic pose of the god (original height 100 or 110 cm.) suggests that he was engaged in a victorious struggle with a lesser opponent; for a possible reconstruction of the composition see the warriors on the bronze reliefs from Siris in London: LIMC, vol. 1, p. 617, no. 478, pl. 498. His opponent could have been Pan, whom Eros defeated in a duel (see N. Marquardt, Pan in der hellenistischen und kaiserzeitlichen Plastik, 1995, pp. 124ff.).

An old handwritten label on the base reads "3630".