Roman Marble Figure of Aphrodite, circa 2nd century AD

standing on a profiled base with the weight on her left leg, the support in the form of a dolphin with spiralling tail raised high and supporting a fringed cloth falling in rippling folds down the back; no restorations.

English private collection, acquired on the London art market in the early 1980s

Repaired across proper right ankle and both knees. Chips along the figure's base as well as on the dolphin's mouth and dorsal fin. Proper right breast chipped as shown. Iron stains on chest, neck and arm breaks where iron pins were once inserted in small circular holes, probably to secure marble restorations that have been removed. Deep chisel marks on proper right armpit. Surface vigorously cleaned of all visible incrustation deposit. Some staining.
"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."

Supports for marble figures of Aphrodite usually come in the shape of a dolphin, Eros riding a dolphin, or a cloth draped over a water vessel, but more rarely as a dolphin supporting a cloth. For another example see A. Giuliano, ed., Museo Nazionale Romano, vol. I.1, 1979, pp. 170ff., no. 115.