- 80
Attributed to Giovanni Pichler (1734-1791) Italian, Rome, 18th century
Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 GBP
bidding is closed
Description
- Intaglio with a Bust of Menelaus
- signed: Pichler in Greek script and in reverse
- carnelian, in a gold setting with later hoop
- Attributed to Giovanni Pichler (1734-1791) Italian, Rome, 18th century
Condition
Overall the condition of the stone is excellent with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is a possible vein in the neck. There are a few very minor abrasions at the edges. There is general wear to the gold mount.
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
Giovanni Pichler (1721-91), son of the gem cutter Antonio Pichler and brother to Luigi, was an eminent gem cutter working in Rome in the mid 18th century. The present intaglio is superbly carved and compares well with other gems executed by Pichler. The subject is the head of Menelaus from the Pasquino Group otherwise known as ‘Menelaus supporting the body of Patroclus’ (and sometimes erroneously identified as Ajax) located in the Loggia dei Lanzi in Florence.
RELATED LITERATURE
L. Forrer, A Biographical Dictionary of Medallists, pp. 509-521
RELATED LITERATURE
L. Forrer, A Biographical Dictionary of Medallists, pp. 509-521