- 65
Italian, Venice, circa 1570
Estimate
20,000 - 30,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- Pair of bronzes representing Hercules carrying the Gradenigo family steps
- gilt bronze
- Italian, Venice, circa 1570
one with a remnant of a wax seal on the underside
Provenance
private collection, Lombardy, Italy
Condition
Overall the condition of the bronzes is good with wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. The gilding has some areas of rubbing particularly from the waist up. There are some areas of nicks and scratches, including to the front of the terrasse of the statuettes. The statuettes have been cast in sections; joints are visible at the wrists of the arms holding the steps. Both figures are mounted on their bases with square pegs; one has two screws as well whilst the other has one hole from which the screw is missing on the base. Both bases have been weighted with lead on the interior.
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
The present representations of Hercules lean on a set of steps surmounted by a Doge's hat, which are the attributes of the Gradenigo family of Venice. The family played a key part in the leadership of the city state from the Middle Ages onwards, providing numerous Doges. A further gilt cast of the statuette of Hercules leaning on his club was offered at San Marco Casa d'Aste, Venice, on 18 December 2008, lot 31, and was there attributed to Francesco Segala on the basis of comparisons to his statue of Hercules in the Museo Civico, Padua.