A Copper Alloy Group Depicting Somaskandha

William Wolff, 1970

Oxidation, accretion and patination overall. Scattered losses to Shiva's fingertips and accoutrements as viewed. Shiva's proper upper right hand rejoined at wrist, and lower right hand rejoined at elbow. Area of professional consolidation and adhesive at Shiva's proper right knee. Parvati's eyes likely recarved, per tradition. Scattered areas of mineralized accretions, which could be selectively cleaned off to reveal more of the original shape of the casting. Skandha and base separately and later cast.
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.

Compare an 11th century Somaskanda from the Chola period, see Jan van Alphen, Cast for Eternity: Bronze Masterworks from India and the Himalayas in Belgian and Dutch Collections, 2004, p. 50, cat. no. 4 and Pratapaditya Pal, Indian Sculpture: A Catalogue of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art Collection, Vol. 2, 1988, p. 271, cat. no. 143.