AFFORTUNATO GORI | Echo

Overall the condition of the marble is excellent with minor dirt and wear consistent with age. There is natural veining to the marble consistent with the material including to the proper right side of the torso and to the proper left side of the abdomen. There are a few very minor chips and abrasions around the edges of the integral white marble base. There are a few small chips and abrasions to the edges and corners of the green marble base.
"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."

Affortunato Gori’s marble carving of the nymph Echo is a beautiful example of the artist’s love of sculpting the female form. The whimsical pose and mythological subject matter were prevalent features in 19^th century figurative sculpture. The soft feminine curves and the fabric clinging to the nymph’s figure are exquisitely carved. As the myth is told, Echo had her voice taken from her by Zeus’s jealous wife Hera, and as a punishment she was only able to repeat the words of others. This resulted in her greatest desire, the handsome Narcissus, rejecting her. Heartbroken from a love she never knew, the beautiful Echo is said to roam and forever haunt the earth with her reverberating voice, a tale wonderfully captured in this elegant sculpture.