Attributed to the workshop of Tarquinio (1570-1638) and Pietro Paolo Jacometti (1580-1658) Italian, Recanati, first half 17th century

cast with a coat of arms and inscribed: STA^T CV^I / ROBORE VIRTU^S 

Carlo De Carlo, Florence;
his sale, Eredi di Carlo De Carlo, Semenzato, Florence, 19 April 2001, lot 67

Overall the condition of the bronze is good, with some wear and dirt to the surface consistent with age. There is some rubbing, and minor flaking, to the lacquer patina at the high points. There is some dryness to the patina in the crevices. There are several light scratches, including to the top of the base. There is a lacuna to the well below the rim at the top. There is a small stable casting fissure to the stem of the tail.
"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."

A similar inkstand with a lion rampant and masks on the basin, cast for the comune of Faenza by Tarquinio and Pietro Paolo Jacometti circa 1619-21, is held in the Pinacoteca Comunale, Faenza.

RELATED LITERATURE
J. Warren, The Wallace Collection: Catalogue of Italian Sculpture, London, 2016, vol. 2, p. 430, fig. 99.2