Follower of Massimiliano Soldani-Benzi (1656-1740), Italian or French, second half 18th century

Overall the condition of the bronze is good. There is some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age and handling with some rubbing on the high points and some particular wear to the proper right side of Venus' torso and her proper left upper leg. There are joints visible at Cupid's abdomen, proper left wrist and proper right shoulder. The felt stuck to the underside is 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."

This charming group seems to derive from bronzes with reclining nudes by Soldani-Benzi. See the Leda in the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge (inv. no. M.60-1984) and the Amor and Psyche from Berlin's Skulpturensammlung illustrated by Pratesi (op.cit.).

RELATED LITERATURE
G. Pratesi, Repertorio della scultura fiorentina del Seicento e Settecento, Turin, 1993, vol. III, pl. 534; V. Avery, Renaissance and Baroque bronzes from the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, exh. cat. Daniel Katz Ltd., London, 2002, pp. 90-101, no. 8