Johann Sporer (1720-1759) South German, active in Rome, circa 1740 After the antique

finely carved, each on integrally carved plinth inscribed with original Greek inscription and signed on the back of one IONES SPORER

Both figures are in overall good condition consistent with age. There is some general wear to the patination and some minor scratching and dents to the surface. The centaur left on the catalogue photograph originally carved in sections, including one at the tail, the back of the right hind leg, the back section of the base, and some fingers. There is a large vertical section visible through the body of the centaur in the middle, the tree trunk and the base, a larger fissure and some related smaller ones running parallel to it. The right foreleg has been replaced from the knee. The centaur at the right on the catalogue photograph has been originally carved in sections, as well, including one at the tail, the back of the base, both hind legs above the hoofs, the back part of the body, the right arm and front leg, which is slightly loose in the joint. There is a small loss at the right shoulder, and areas of restoration at the top of his club and the lion skin over his arm where a small area has been replaced. There are few vertical fissures in the wood.
"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."

Johannes Sporer was born in Sommerach in 1720.  He left Southern Germany to study in Rome in 1739 where he remained.  Sporer is primarily known for his ivories, examples of which are in the Museo Civico Bologna illustrated by Philippovich. Two groups of Hercules and the Hydra and Apollo with a snake signed Giovanni Sporer fecit Roma Anno 1748 are in the Mecklenburgischen Staatsmuseum Schwerin.

The original marble groups were excavated at Hadrian's Villa in 1736  with engravings published in 1741.  It was not until 1765 that they were acquired by the Capitoline Musem.

RELATED LITERATURE
E. von Philippovich, Elfenbein (Munich, reprint 1982), p. 176-178, figs. 148-9; F. Haskell & N. Penny, Taste and the Antique, (New Haven, 1981) p.178