South Netherlandish, circa 1700

Overall the condition of the bronze is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is rubbing to the lacquer patina at the high points. The surface seems to have been covered in a loose lacquer to preserve the patina underneath. There is dark spotting to the lacquer patina in several areas. There are a few small lacunae, including at the back of the legs. There are a few nicks and scratches, including to the proper right elbow. The ebonised wood socle is in good condition with some wear to the edges. There is stable splitting to the wood, notably at the back.
"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."

Another version of this affecting model showing Lucretia's suicide was sold in these rooms on 9 July 2009 as lot 108. A variant, versions of which are in the Metropolitan Museum (inv. no. 64.101.1466), the Bayerisches Nationalmuseum, and the Victoria and Albert Museum (inv. no. A.113-1956), has variously been attributed to Ferdinando Tacca (1619-1689) or catalogued as Italo-Flemish, mid-17th century. The characteristics of the present bronze indicate that it is of the latter origin, albeit slightly later.

RELATED LITERATURE
Y. Hackenbroch, Bronzes, other Metalwork and Sculpture in the Irwin Untermeyer Collection, London, 1962, pl. 76, fig. 79; Bayerisches Nationalmuseum. Bildführer 1. Bronzeplastik, Munich, 1974, p. 62