After Giovanni Battista Foggini (1652-1725), after the antique
Probably French, first half 18th century
Laocoön and his Sons
bronze, with a modulated red-green patina
stamped with the owner Pyotr Arkadievich Kochubey's mark: PK, numbered 1 in white paint, and further inscribed: 60 and 225 to the reverse
57.5 by 44cm., 22⅝ by 17¼in.
The bronze is overall in excellent condition. There are some hairline fractures around the right forearm of the boy on Laocoon's proper left. There are various original casting plugs, notably on Laocoon's right chest and right knee, on the left-hand boy's left knee and the right-hand boy's right leg. There is an original square patch on the back of Laocoon's neck. There is general wear to the patina consistent with age and general surface dirt, notably in Laocoon's hair and beard. Otherwise the condition is very good.
"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."
Probably from the collection of Prince Alexander Andreevich Bezborodko (1747-1799)
Probably by descent to his brother Ilya Andreevich Bezborodko (1756–1815)
Probably by descent to his daughter Lyubov (1783–1809), who married Count Grigory Grigorievich Kushelev (1754-1833)
Probably by descent to their son Count Alexander Grigorievich Kushelev-Bezborodko (1800-1855)
Probably by descent to his daughter Varvara (1829-1896), who married Pyotr Arkadievich Kochubey (1825-1892)
By descent to their son Vasily Petrovitch Kochubey (Basile Kotschoubey)
His sale Paris, Drouot, 13-16 June, 1906, lot 346 (commissaire-priseur: F. Lair-Dubreuil; experts: M. Paulme, B. Lasquin and G. Legay)
Acquired by the antique dealer, Georges Seligman, Place Vendôme, Paris, for 3600 francs
Private collection, France since 1979