AFTER ANTONIO CANOVA (1757 – 1822) ITALIAN, ROMAN, CIRCA 1820 | Mars and Venus

Slane Castle, County Meath, Ireland, by repute

Very minor, standard surface abrasions and minor chipping to some edges including base. End of sword sheeth was broken and reattached. Otherwise, overall beautiful surface. Fine quality.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Antonio Canova's original sculpture of the Roman Gods Mars and Venus was commissioned by the Prince Regent, later George IV, for Carlton House in 1815 during Canova's visit to London to view the Elgin Marbles. It represents an allegory of War and Peace after England’s victory over Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo. Exhibited in 1822, Canova delivered the sculpture to Carlton House in 1824, where it was placed in the Gothic Conservatory. The sculpture is currently in the collection of H. M. the Queen at Buckingham Palace, where it is on display in the Marble Hall. The present marble is a very fine reduction of Canova's sculpture made to commemorate this historic moment.

RELATED LITERATURE
Giuseppe Pavanello, L'opera completa del Canova, Milan, 1976, no. 307, pl. LXV