Lot 667
  • 667

After a model by Giovanni Bonazza (1654-1737) Northern Italian, probably 19th century

Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 GBP
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Description

  • Relief with the Adoration of the Shepherds
  • terracotta, in an ebonised and gilt wood frame, and on a wood base
  • After a model by Giovanni Bonazza (1654-1737) Northern Italian, probably 19th century
inscribed: IN to an angel's banner

Condition

There is dirt and wear to the surface, consistent with age. There are a series of restored fractures running through the relief, visible in particular on the far left side, to the sky with cherubim, to the left of the nativity, and diagonally at the right side of the relief. Some of the heads are restored, and possibly reattached. There are areas of restoration to the relief, particularly to the background underneath the straw roof. There are also various losses, including to some of the figures' bodies, and some of the fingers are lost or restored. There are possible losses to the edges of the relief. Part of the ground on the right side may be reconstructed. The frame is very good quality, and is generally in good condition, with minor wear.
"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

The present composition follows the marble relief depicting the Adoration of the Shepherds by Giovanni Bonazza and his sons, dated 1730, in the church of Santi Giovanni e Paolo in Venice. Two other copies in terracotta are known, one in the Gallerie dell'Accademia, Venice, and another in the Chrysler Museum of Art, Norfolk, Virginia. It is possible that these were created for an international Grand Tour audience.

RELATED LITERATURE
A. Bacchi (ed.), La Scultura a Venezia da Sansovino a Canova, Milan, 2000, fig. 269