Restoration to proper left shoulder and back of base. Proper left fingers and arm reattached at elbow. Proper right drapery reattached in two small sections. Waxy fill material applied to the back of the figure for further support. Some small coral decorative elements loose, some perhaps replaced, and some with small losses. Some minor chips to tortoiseshell veneer. Tortoiseshell sections probably later additions Figure and base are of same date but perhaps associated.
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.

The city of Trapani on the northwest coast of Sicily developed as a principal Mediterranean commercial port due to its geographic location and natural resources. Red coral was found in abundance off of the coast and the city became a center for the production of coral works of art in the 17th and 18th centuries. By 1628, a guild of coral workers, the Arte dei Corallari, was established in Trapani and they worked closely with goldsmiths and other craftsmen to create intricate decorative and ecclesiastical objects.

According to ancient mythওology, red coral was stained by the blood of the severed head of Medusa, and later had associations with the blood of Christ, both traditions assigning apotropaic qualities to the material.