BENJAMIN EDWARD SPENCE | Herm Bust of a Gentleman

Overall the condition of the marble is good, with dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are naturally occurring inclusions to the marble in areas, some of which are slightly dark, including to the chest at the proper right side and the proper left side, and at the centre at the truncation. There are a few dirt marks, including to the truncation at the front on the proper right side and to the reverse. There is veining to the marble, consistent with the material, in particular to the proper left side and the back of the truncation and to the proper left side of the neck. There are some minor chips and abrasions to the marble, in particular to the edges and corners.
"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."

Graves (op. cit., p. 215) records a 'Bust of Charles Holland, M.D., F.R.S. to have been made by Spence in Rome in 1849 and exhibited at the Royal Academy in the same year.  RELATED LITERATURE
A. Graves, The Royal Academy of Arts: A Complete Dictionary of Contributors, vol. 7, London 1906, p. 215