Spanish, Castile or Aragon, circa 1540

Dr. Gustav Rau, France;
Sotheby's London, 2 July 1997, lot 91

Overall the condition of the head is good with some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. The polychromy has wear at the high points. Two sections were reattached at the lower left side. There is a loss to the lower right edge. The tip of the nose and the ends of the beard are chipped. There are a few minor naturally occurring hairline fissures, including one to the proper right cheek. There are remnants of an old a label to the reverse.
"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."

The defined nostril, thick waves of hair, and proportional harmony of the face in profile bear close resemblance to the work of Castilian and Aragonese sculptors such as Juan de Anchieta, active in Zaragoza from 1540.