Italian, 19th century

together with a yellow marble memento mori skull

Overall the condition of the vessel is excellent. There is some minor wear consistent with age and there is some natural veining visible. There are some minor chips to the skull, particularly at the front teeth and the head of the lizard is missing.
"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."

This marble lamp, painstakingly carved from a piece of rosso marble, was inspired by bronze oil lamps known from antiquity and imitated in the renaissance by Paduan sculptors such as Andrea Riccio.  Oil lamps, like present work of art, often assumed the form of grotesque figures. The grape vines, pointed ears and horns suggest that this marble lamp represents a satyr, a popular creature used to playfully decorate utilitarian objects.

RELATED LITERATURE
L. Planiscig, Die Bronzeplastiken. Statuetten, Reliefs, Geräte und Plaketten. Vienna, 1924, p. 30