the beast spiritedly cast with its head looking over its shoulder, its mouth agape, with bulging eyes beneath curled eyebrows, its ears rising above its tufted curled mane, its back turned, the strong body dressed with elaborate trappings suspending tassels, bells and a tracery harness encircling the tufted tail, its back inset with an open brazier, flanked by two urn-shaped containers

There is a repair to the left hind leg and cracks in the other three legs and on the haunches. The tail has been broken and pinned with losses along the break, and chips to the tips of the tail. The urns on either side of the lion show evidence of repair. There are nicks along the rim of the central opening and corrosion to the grate inside. There is the expected wear to the surface consistent with age.
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.