Italian, Rome, circa 1800 After the Antique

Overall the condition of the marble is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is veining to the surface consistent with material, including to the chest, proper right cheek and neck. There are a few small losses, including to the drapery and to the back of the neck. There are a few scratches and a few naturally occurring inclusions, including to the chin and neck. There is a small hole to the back of the bust.
"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."

Marcus Aurelius was Roman Emperor from 161-180 C.E.. Not only is he remembered as the last of the so-called ‘Five Good Emperors’ but he was also an important figure of Stoic Philosophy. He endured a reign rife in warfare, achieving mixed success. It was during his campaign that he wrote the famous Meditations, an important text in the Stoic corpus. However, although he is well-regarded, it was his decision to appoint his son Commodus as Caesar that led to what Cassius Dio describes as a descent ‘from a kingdom of gold to one of iron and rust’ thus damaging the power and legacy of the Roman Empire.

This fine marble bust is carved after the 2nd-century C.E. bust of Marcus Aurelius as a youth in the Capitoline Museums, Rome (inv. no. MC 279).