South German, 1595

The well modelled face with diaper hair crespine below the openwork domed mitre surmounted by a cross, richly chased with fruits, flowers and winged cherub heads, hinged (now fixed) to reveal the hair-chased skull with ring finial, the cloak with formal straps, scalework panels and crowns with gilt borders with similar embellishment to the mitre, on four winged cherub supports with gothic fleur de lys frieze between, applied at front with a roundel Hoc Sacrum Caput Est Sancti Sixti Papa et Martyris 1595, the cloak back with the Virgin and Child and applied armorials, the whole set with stones and on silver applied ebonised wood plinth.

Overall the condition of the bust is good with some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age and some tarnishing to the silver and rubbing to the gilding. Two of the gems are missing on the reverse. Some settings are loose. The head is slightly loose and there are two holes at the temples.There are some fissures to the lower edge and a section of tracery at the reverse was lost. A section to the side of the base is 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."