Gelindo Monzini

Overall the condition of the marble is very good with minor dirt and wear consistent with age; this is remarkable given the fragility of the carving of the flowers falling from the hair. There are some very minor chips to some of the high points of the flowers and the hair at the back. There are a few small naturally occurring inclusions in the marble, in particular to the chest and the proper right breast. There is an orange-coloured inclusion to a rose on the proper left side at the bottom. There is some very light veining to the marble consistent with the material, notably across the chest and to the proper right side of the face. The bust sits on a separately carved marble slab, which is not attached to the bust. There is particular wear to this marble slab, with scratches and some chips around 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."

The present bust is carved with the highest attention to detail, the abundance of flowers in the hair and around the edge demonstrating exceptional quality. Gelindo Monzini, active in Milan, started exhibiting at the Società Promotrice Delle Belle Arti in Turin from 1868. Afterwards, he exhibited in several Italian cities, including Rome and Naples, and is recorded to have showcased in London several times from 1873. A bust of Flora was presented in Rome in 1883, and, although the present bust predates this by several years, it is possibly the same one.