Veneto, Northern Italy

Christie's South Kensington, 29 September 2009, lot 62

Overall, the condition of the relief is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are some minor chips particularly to the edges of the relief. There are some small chips and abrasions to the drapery. A small section of the woman's headdress is reattached. There is some minor veining consistent with the material.
"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."

This elegant relief recalls sculpture made in the Veneto towards the end of the 17th century and the beginning of the 18th century. Compare with the bust of St John the Evangelist by Michiel Fabris, called l'Ongaro (1644-1684) published in S. Guerriero, 'Le alterne fortune dei marmi: busti, teste di carattere e altre "Scultore moderne" nelle collezioni Veneziane tra sei e settecento', in G. Pavanello (ed.), La scultura veneta del seicento e del settecento, Venice, 2002, p. 107, fig. 6. Note also the Bust of a Girl attributed to Orazio Marinali (1643-1720) which sold at Sotheby's New York on 26 January 2007, lot 286.