There are layers of terracotta-colored polychromy applied to surface. It appears that there have been several extremely competently restored breaks in the body and firing cracks that may have led to breaks on the top half of the head. Otherwise standard surface abrasions and chipping throughout. Stable. Nicely modeled. Old nail in back of head for halo.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Although generally regarded as originating in the Verrocchio workshop, terracotta busts of this type were probably produced by contemporaries outside of the master's studio. These busts show a varying degree of reliance on Verrocchio's model of the head of Christ from his immensley successful monumental bronze sculpture of Christ and St. Thomas for Orsanmichele in Florence, which he began in 1466.

A Thermoluminescence Analysis Report from Oxford Authentication, Ltd. dated December 11, 2012, states that sample N112n7, taken from the present lot, was last fired between 400 and 700 years ago (1312-1612 A.D).