Italian, Venice or Padua, 16th century

Overall the condition of the bronze is good with some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is a dark lacquer patina which has areas of losses including to the proper right side and the inside of the right leg. Overall the casting of the bronze is somewhat rough, consistent with Venetian casts of the time. The proper right arm was cast separately and joined with a peg; there are numerous casting flaws in this area. There is a lead plug to the proper right knee. Overall the condition of the marble base is good with some dirt and several minor chips to the 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."

This amusing statuette of a satyr brandishing a pear recalls the satyrs created by Andrea Briosco, called Il Riccio (1470-1532), and his follower Desiderio da Firenze (fl. 1532-1545). Compare, for example, the satyr with urns by Riccio in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York (inv. no. 1982.45), or the candlestick-bearing satyr from the circle of Desiderio formerly in the Wernher collection, sold at Christie's London, 5 July 2000, lot W66.