German, third quarter 18th century

Overall the condition of the bronze is good. There is wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. The figure was cast in pieces. Some joints are visible, particularly at both shoulders and halfway the body of the snake. The joint at the snake and the proper right arm are loose. There are several casting flaws including a larger one in the base under the proper right foot and some smaller ones in and around the hair. There is an area of pins and patches to the back, a further patch is visible on her right shoulder. There is a spat of apint to her left buttock and there is some minor greening to the crevice between the legs.
"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."

Based on the antique marble of the Venus de Medici, this unusual bronze was conceived by a Northern sculptor either following a visit to Italy, or by reference to contemporary prints of the marble. The presence of the humanoid head to the serpents body not only symbolises Lust but also reflects the interest in satire towards the end of the eighteenth century. An example is the cartoon by Rowlandson of 1784 that was interpreted in a satirical marble group of the Infant Hercules as William Pitt, struggling with the serpents, whose heads represent Charles James Fox and Lord North. This was based in turn on the antique Laocoon group and was executed by the Italian, Pier Antoni, called Sposino, and sold in these rooms 13 December 1990 as lot 93.