Lot 57
  • 57

AFTER A MODEL BY GUGLIELMO DELLA PORTA (CIRCA 1515-1577)ITALIAN, ROME, LATE 16TH/ 17TH CENTURY | Corpus Christi

Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • Corpus Christi
  • gilt bronze, on an ebony cross with gilt metal appliques
  • corpus: 25 by 20cm., 9 7/8  by 7 7/8 in.crucifix: 60 by 37cm., 23 5/8  by 14 1/2 in.

Condition

Overall the condition of the Corpus is good, with minor wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is some tarnishing to the gilding in areas, in particular the crevices of the hair, beard, feet, hands and drapery. There is some minor rubbing at the high points, notably at the proper right knee. There is a small metal dowel to the back of Christ's neck. There are very small lacunae above Christ's proper left eye and in the perizonium. The metal appliques on the cross are slightly loose but stable. There is wear to these, including rubbing and some tarnishing. The top applique appears to have been cast later than the others. There is minor stable splitting to the wood consistent with the material and some glue residues are visible on the reverse of the cross.
"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 bronze appears to follow Guglielmo della Porta's Christ Crucified in the Mount Calvary relief in El Escorial, Madrid.

RELATED LITERATURE
R. Coppel et al., Guglielmo della Porta: A Counter-Reformation Sculptor, Coll&Cortes, Madrid, 2012, pp. 98-110