A Greek Bronze Cuirass, circa 4th Century B.C.

composed of a front and back plate held together by hinges and by sets of twin attachment rings for leather straps, holes for now lost attachment rings on each shoulder strap, the muscles, spine, and navel clearly indicated, the nipples attached separately, the lower girth increasing to facilitate horseriding.

B.C. Holland/Objects Inc., Chicago, inv. no. D80-1-14
acquired by the present owner from the above on September 8th, 1980

Front plate: Four inch loss at bottom of front plate as shown, small crack across proper left nipple, one hinge and its rivets missing along proper right edge, and one attachment ring missing along proper left edge, both shoulder attachment rings missing, areas of possible bronze disease visible on center of inner edge, patches of red with bright purple in several areas on inside could indicate that these areas have been successfully treated for bronze disease, chip on neckline and on top of shoulder straps. Back plate: Shoulder blades appear to have been bent out of shape and hammered back into place, several areas of superficial cracking appear to have been filled in with modern material, small areas of possible active bronze disease, rivets missing and small losses at top of shoulder straps.
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.