Lot 84
  • 84

Italian, probably Florence, 16th century

Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • Reliquary bust of a young saint, possibly Saint John the Evangelist
  • gilt copper, with an iron buttress to the reverse
  • Italian, probably Florence, 16th century

Provenance

with Elia Volpi, Florence, before 1917;
his sale, American Art Galleries, New York, 17-19 December 1917, lot 46

Condition

Overall the condition of the copper is good with wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. The base, shoulders, head, ends of the locks of hair and lid were all modelled separately and joined. There is some rubbing of the gilding, including, to the screw on top, the tip of the nose and the cherub on the chest. There are a few minor stable fissures around the neck and forehead and in some of the crevices. There is some minor greening on the inside of the head. The lid opens by undoing the original screw. The hinge is slightly 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."