in gilt wood frame

This lovely roundel exhibits some surface dirt and minor areas of discoloration consistent with age. There is a small area where there is a possible fill in the upper right side of relief (see catalogue photograph). The frame exhibits chips, wear, rubbing to gilding.
"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 relief of the world renowned botanist and explorer was modelled during his lifetime (Tullberg). There are two recorded portrait roundels of von Linné modelled by Tobias Sergel, who was his correspondent.  The first is now in the National Museum of Stockholm and depicts a younger von Linné with a full head of hair and utilizes the motif of a plant placed below the bust.  The second portrait of 1794 (Uppsala) shows him with added years and a slightly receding hairline.  The present roundel is similar in both style and conception to the above mentioned reliefs but is an even older impression of von Linné.  In fact, the present model is arguably the most successful of the three roundels with the leafy sprig beside the botanist instead of tucked underneath the portrait.  It is very likely this present version was Sergel's final portrait of his friend.  There is a similar plaster in the Linnean Society, Burlington House, London, which is not in an original gilt frame.  

The year 2007 marks the 300th anniversary of the birth of von Linné and is marked with worldwide celebrations. 

RELATED LITERATURE
T. Tullberg, Linnéporträtt (Stockholm, 1907) no. 337