Lot 76: ATTRIBUTED TO PROSPERO SPANI, CALLED IL CLEMENTE (1516-1584) ITALIAN, EMILIA, CIRCA 1560-1570 | Bust of Alfonso II d'Este, Duke of Ferrara (1533-1597)

inscribed to the reverse in ink: ...598 and with a 20th-century printed paper label: 67 / 10

96 by 57cm., 37 3/4  by 22 1/2 in. overall

marble, on a possibly associated marble socle

Overall the condition of the marble is good, with dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There appears to be a restored break running through the proper right side of the torso, particularly visible at the back. There is a prominent vein running through the proper left side of the torso, which has been strengthened with dowels and restoration is visible at the back.There is a filled section next to the restored break at the back. There are some, possibly original, inserts at the back in the centre below the neck and several running through the strut in the centre of the back. There is some evidence of restoration in these areas. The tip of the nose is reattached and there is some restoration. There is some further naturally occurring veining to the marble, including some slightly open veins to the chest on the proper right side. There is a small loss to the tip of the strap at the chest, and there is wear to the buckle. There are various minor scuff marks, in particular to the breast plate. There are naturally occurring inclusions to the marble, including to the breast plate and at the proper right shoulder. There is a series of small inclusions to the proper left side of the forehead at the top, and around the proper left eye. There are a few small chips and abrasions, including some small chips to the eyelids, above the proper right eye, and to the top of the forehead on the proper right side. There is general wear and minor abrasions to the high points in the hair. There are some very small chips and abrasions, including some small filled holes, including to the bottom of the breast plate. There are some small holes and some small scratches to the proper left shoulder. Part of the proper right shoulder has been left roughed out at the back. The socle is old but possibly associated. There are various small chips and abrasions around the edges, and possible losses to the tops of the titular plaque - there may have been upper scrolls matching the lower ones. There are some dirt stains, in particular to the socle and the breast plate.
"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."

With Heim Gallery, London, circa 1960's/1970's;
private European collector