Italian, 18th century

The scene has been remounted on a later slate slab. Overall the condition of the inlay is good. There is wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. A later layer of painted has peeled off, leaving several traces, particularly in the black areas. Several sections of the inlay are fissured but are stable due to the slate support.
"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 pose of this skeleton is taken from the famous Apollo Belvedere. The attitudes of antiquities were often appropriated as anatomical models. William Cheselden's Osteographia, or the anatomy of bones of 1733, for example, contains an illustration of another skeleton based on the Apollo. In this case, the classical model could have been chosen because of its pagan associations, reminding the onlooker exactly which interests should not be pursued in life.