Italian, probably Genoa, 18th century

Overall the condition of the marble is good. There is dirt to the surface throughout and some wear consistent with age. The marble has a slight orange tinge to the underside, possibly due to tobacco staining. The surface is worn smooth possibly due to some repolishing in areas. There are some minor chips and nicks including to the edges of the laurel wreath. There are some chips to the corners of the socle. The veined black marble column is in two parts and has some chips to its edges.
"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 Baroque swathe of drapery enveloping the present bust, and the fixed gaze of the sitter, are reminiscent of the work of the Genoese sculptor Filippo Parodi (1630-1702). Compare the treatment of the cuirass with the clothing seen on a bust of a woman from the circle of Parodi, which was sold at Christie's on 12 December 2002, lot 36.

The facial features of the sitter accord with those of the Roman Emperor Nerva, see, for example, the bust of Nerva in the Museo Torlonia, Rome (inv. no. Inv. no. 222).

RELATED LITERATURE
S. Tumidei, 'Una segnalazione veneziana per Filippo Parodi,' Nuovi Studi, pp. 177-182