A Roman Marble Head of Sarapis, circa 2nd Century A.D.

after the circa 300 B.C. monumental cult statue attributed to Bryaxis, with thick parted beard of spiral curls, curled moustache, and long wavy hair falling in symmetrical curls onto the shoulders and five deeply drilled locks over the forehead, the neck carved for insertion into a bust, the crown of the head prepared for addition of the modius, the back carved flat; no restorations.

European private collection, prior to WWII (based on the wooden socle)
American private collection, acquired in the 1980s

Galerie Chenel, Paris, Aesthetica, 2016, p. 73, illus.

As shown. The back carved flat. Good condition, surface worn with minor incrustations and abrasions.
"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."

For the written sources regarding the cult statue see S. Kansteiner, et al., eds., Der Neue Overbeck, vol. 3, 2014, pp. 492ff., no. 6.

A handwritten label under the base reads "Greek Head Marble / Neptune-008-P".