Lot 179: LOUIS FRANÇOIS ROUBILIAC (1702–1762) AND WORKSHOP BRITISH, 18TH CENTURY | Bust of George Frideric Handel

white marble, on a later veined grey marble base

bust: 54cm., 21¼in.<br />base: 14.8cm., 6in.

white marble, on a later veined grey marble base

Overall the condition of the marble is good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. However, there is one key condition issue, which is that the interior of the head has been excavated, and the back of the head reattached in several sections from the upper back through to the top of the skull cap. The joints have been carefully conserved and are slightly visible. The restorations are particularly visible at the sides of the head and at the lapel at the proper right side at the back. There is a metal strut to the interior of the head running from the face to the back of the head, held in place by a composite sealant, supporting the structure of the head. It is supposed that this excavation was undertaken in order to lessen the weight of the bust so that it could be placed up a height on a bracket, upon a piece of furniture, or within an architectural setting (see David Wilson's article for a more detailed discussion of this). In addition, as is explained in the catalogue note, the bust appears to be unfinished, with the face at a more advanced stage of completion than the shoulders. The socle with the inscription is carved separately, and the join with the bust is strengthened with composite material at the back. There appear to be some losses to the back of the inscription socle. There is veining to the marble, consistent with the material, throughout. A slightly open vein at the proper right shoulder appears partially restored at the back. There is particular veining to the proper left cheekbone and proper left cheek, to the lapel on the proper right side, and where the lapels meet towards the bottom of the bust. There are a few minor naturally occurring inclusions to the marble, including to the nose. There are a few small chips and abrasions, particularly to the edges of the inscription socle, to the edges of the shoulders at the back, and to the corner of the proper right shoulder. There is a small metal hook in the back of the bust. There is some dirt to the surface and a few specks of wax. The veined grey marble base is in good condition and is later, with minor wear.
"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."

London, Tate Britain, Migrations. Journeys into British Art, 2012

D. Wilson, ''By Heaven Inspired': A marble bust of Handel by Roubiliac rediscovered', The British Art Journal, vol. X, no. 1, 2009, pp. 14-29;
M. Baker, The Marble Index. Roubiliac and Sculptural Portraiture in Eighteenth-century Britain, New Haven and London, 2014, p. 259 and note. 63;
David Hunter, Lives of George Frideric Handel, future publication, to be included

Alfred Morrison (1821-1897), London;
his sale, Christie's London, 10 February 1900, lot 107;
acquired by S. T. Gooden (later,  Hazlitt, Gooden & Fox) London, on commission for one Charles Eley, probably the Chairman of Eley Brothers, the well-known manufacturer of firearms cartridges