Italian, 18th/ 19th century

Perhaps bought by Otto Beit(1865-1930).
Inherited by Lady Clementine Beit who donated them in 2005 to The Alfred Beit Foundation
Christie's, London, 7 December 2006, lot 186

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good. There is dirt and some minor wear to the surface consistent with age. The shells to the sides of Neptune are both slightly loose.
"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."

The central figure of the present bronze, which can be opened, was immensely popular. Casts exist in the Thyssen-Bornemisza collection, Madrid, at the Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art, Providence, the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, and elsewhere. Anthony Radcliffe has proposed an attribution of the model to Francesco Fanelli, but his proposal has recently been questioned in favour of an unknown master active in the late 16th or early 17th century. The rocaille base clearly provides a terminus post quem for the present cast.