An Italian gilt-bronze salt-cellar in the form of a kneeling youth supporting a clam shell, 19th century, probably Venice, after a 16th century model

M. H. Schwartz (ed.), European Sculpture from the Abbott Guggenheim Collection, New York, 2008, no. 52, p. 110

Gilding rubbed throughout. Surface abrasions, dents, pitting and scratches throughout. Casting flaws to shell including one hole at thin point above figure's back. Some verdegris.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The number of versions of this model, which seem to range widely in date, attest to its long enduring popularity.  It has been suggested that the artist's original is found in the ungilt version in the Ashmoleon Museum, Oxford, which is certainly the finest example.  Now thought to be the work of one of Jacopo Sansovino's Venetian followers, it was previously attributed to Girolamo Campagna. The composition is based generally on the image of Atlas carrying the heavens on his shoulders, and the shell cleverly refers to the source of the salt it carries.

RELATED LITERATURE

J. Warren, Renaissance Master Bronzes from the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford: the Fortnum Collection, Daniel Katz, Ltd, London, 1999, cat. no. 37, pp. 108-109