Italian, 16th century

Nazzareno Bastioli Antichità, Spello, Italy

There is overall weathering to the surface of the marble. The section with the two paws at the front has been reattached. There is a large chip to the back corner at the proper left side of the lion. There are horizontal, naturally occurring, fissures to the left flank of the animal. There is some minor wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. Overall the condition of the lion is 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."

This upward looking, snarling lion with stylized ears, recumbent on a rectangular plinth, is closely comparable with two lions supporting a Roman Sarcophagus with Bacchic Scenes at the J. Paul Getty Museum at the Getty Villa in Malibu (accession no. 83.AA.275). They were clearly added to the sarcophagus after its excavation in modern times, and it is possible that the lion from Barbara Piasecka Johnson's collection was originally intended for a similar purpose.