Italian, 16th century

Overall the condition of the wood is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The eagle's legs are carved separately and plugs are visible. There is another small plug to the top of the eagle's head. There is stable splitting to the wood, most prominently to the centre of the ball. There is stable worming, particularly to the eagle's chest and proper left wing. The bottom part of the eagle's proper right wing is reattached. There are some small chips to the wood, such as to the eagle's tail. There are slight streaks of green to the ball.
"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."

In heraldry, the eagle is considered one of the most noble bearings. While the bird can be depicted in a range of positions, its curved beak and grand, dense wings are always maintained as its distinguishing features. A more elaborate pair of Italian eagles dating to the end of the 16^thcentury, in a similar guise to the present lot with wings ‘displayed and inverted’, were offered at auction at Finarte Semenzato, Venice, 8 November 2003, lot 268.

RELATED LITERATURE
A.G.M. Hesilrige, Debrett’s Heraldry, London, 1914, pp. 67-68