ITALIAN, ROME, 18TH CENTURY AFTER THE ANTIQUE | Pair of Busts of Roman Emperors

ITALIAN, ROME, 18TH CENTURY
AFTER THE ANTIQUE
Pair of Busts of Roman Emperors

rosso antico marble and Volterra alabaster, on Portasanta marble socles
42 and 45cm., 16½in. and 17¾in.

Condition Report:
Overall the condition of the marbles is very good with minor dirt and wear to the surfaces consistent with age. The condition is consistent with how the busts were made and how they would have been intended to look (ie to resemble ancient marbles). There are probably original (or at least very old) restorations to the red marble heads. One of the pair has separately carved sections at the back and proper left side with some fill. It’s pendant has an area of fill to the top of the head. There is natural veining to the different marbles throughout consistent with the materials. There is a large loss to the back of one socle, and the front of the other socle is reattached (old, possibly original) and there are also some small losses. There are relatively large natural inclusions to the alabaster socles which have been filled (again almost certainly when the busts were made in the 18th century). Minor standard chips and abrasions to some of the edges and high points such as at the tassels at the shoulders.

"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."

Provenance:
Richard Temple-Nugent-Brydges-Chandos-Grenville, 2nd Duke of Buckingham and Chandos (1797-1861), Stowe House, Buckinghamshire;

his sale Christie and Manson, 15 August 1848, lots 1242-1243 'A Roman Imperial bust - the head of rosso antico, the drapery of oriental alabaster - 17 inches high ... The companion Bust' (R. Berkeley, Esq. £16 5s 6d each);

where acquired by Robert Berkeley (1794-1874), Spetchley Park, Worcestershire