Italie, Florence, vers 1600 Tête de Diane

G. Pratesi, Repertorio della Scultura fiorentina del Cinquecento, Turin, 2003.

Fairly good condition overall with surface dirt, especially in the crevices, natural light grey veining and inclusions to the white marble, in particular to her forehead and nose; a few minor chips at several places to the curls and the lower edge of the neck. Remains of the crescent moon crowning Diana's head with the metal fixation visible. Some remains of glue to the underside of her neck where the head has been attached. Wonderful features of this head with a fine caving characteristic of Florentine High Renaissance.
"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."

Les proportions étirées du cou et de l’ovale du visage, les yeux effilés en amande, le nez aux arêtes saillantes se terminant par les arcs marqués des sourcils et la chevelure ondoyante inspirée des modèles antiques, indiquent une origine toscane de ce marbre, sous l’égide de Florence au temps de Giambologna (1529-1608). Notre visage peut être rapproché de celui d’Aretusa dans le groupe en marbre d’Alefo et Aretusa (Metropolitan Museum, inv. n° 40.33 ) par Giovanni Battista Lorenzi (1527/28-1594), élève de Baccio Bandinelli (1493-1560) actif à Florence et à Pise.