WORKSHOP OF LORENZO BARTOLINI | Nymph with a Scorpion

Private collection, Germany

Overall the condition of the marble is good, with some dirt and minor wear to the surface consistent with age. There is light surface dirt throughout, and the marble may benefit from professional cleaning. There are also a few minor dirt marks, including to the hair. There is minor veining to the marble, consistent with the material, including at the chest, the proper right arm, and the proper left hip. There are also a few small, naturally occurring inclusions, including to the hair, the proper right shoulder, and the proper right cheek. There is some white residue in some of the crevices. The marble is slightly textured in areas, including at the thighs (these may be chisel marks). There are a few small chips to the edges of the base.
"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."

This beautiful marble is a rare reduction of one of Bartolini's iconic models: his Nymph with a Scorpion. Conceived in 1837, the model was exhibited in marble at the Paris Salon of 1845 to great acclaim. With his Nymph, Bartolini imbues his restrained classicism with a naturalism seen particularly in the girl's slight grimace and contorted pose, provoked by the scorpion's sting. Prime versions of the model are in the Musée du Louvre, Paris (inv. no. R.F. 4451) and in the Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg (inv. no. Н.ск-155).