Italian, Florence, 18th century

Professor Michael Jaffé CBE (1923-1997), Cambridge, United Kingdom;
and thence by family descent;
on loan to the Fitzwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (1976 - 2016)

Overall the condition of the bronze is good, with some wear and minor dirt to the surface consistent with age. There are remnants of an attractive dark lacquer to the low points; elsewhere this has rubbed away. There are a few minor nicks and scratches, including to the back. The proper right arm is cast separately and a joint and an original circular casting plug are visible. The top of the flute is also carved separately. There is some dark residues to the proper left shoulder and, to a lesser extent, to the proper right thigh. There is a very slightly visible original plug to behind the proper right knee cap. There are small lacunae to below the proper left foot. There are (probably intentional) finely cast holes to the ends of the reeds in the hair. The base is in very good condition with minor wear to the edges and corners. The underside of the base is lined with green felt, which has become partially 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."

This impressive figure of Pan is cast after the Fauno in the Villa Borghese in Rome (inv. no. XXXVI). The present bronze is beautifully cast, with attractive chased details in the hair and tail. There are remnants of a rose gold patina in certain areas, suggesting that the bronze was cast in Florence in the first decades of the 18th century. Another version of the present model was formerly in the Rita Lydig collection, sold American Art Association, New York, 4 April, 1913, lot 60.