C. Pittaluga

Overall the condition of the marble is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. The marble has been extensively cleaned resulting in the surface having a distinct sheen. There are small chips to some of the flowers in the hair. There is some restoration to the proper right little finger and the next finger along has been reattached. There are naturally occurring inclusions, some filled, particularly to the legs. There are minor chips, including around the bottom edge. There is minor natural veining including to the proper right foot.
"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."

Little biographical material on Pittaluga has been published. His Nymph, however, with its sensual nature, accentuated by the marble's lustrous surface, belongs to a tradition of marble statuary current in fin-de-siècle Italy, often characterised by a sophisticated sense of movement. The delicacy of her foot resting on the rock recalls the bathers of Felli or Lombardi who timidly test the waters. The composed elegance achieved by Pittaluga through this motif adds to the profound tenderness and serenity of the model, his Nymph caught in a gentle state of contemplation.

RELATED LITERATURE
A. Panzetta, Nuovo Dizionario gli scultori italiani dell’ottocento e del primo novecento, vol. 2, Borgaro, 2003, p. 697