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Lot Essay
This lead figure is a beautifully executed version of the famous antique marble which is in the Tribuna of the Uffizi. The marble is first definitively recorded in 1665, although it is thought from other sources that it was known from at least the 16th century (Haskell and Penny, loc. cit.). Indeed, the head and arms, which are modern restorations, were traditionally said to have been executed by Michelangelo.
Perhaps the most celebrated copy was executed by Massimiliano Soldani-Benzi (1656-1740), who produced a bronze version for the Prince of Liechtenstein, however, the fame of the model was such that versions of it were in high demand from the late 17th century onwards. In England, John Cheere is known to have produced examples in lead in the 18th century (among them is one at Castle Hill, see Weaver, loc. cit.) although that model differs from the present one in that it lacks the tree stump which supports the left leg. With its finely finished details, this figure is an excellent example of English leadwork of the 18th century.
Perhaps the most celebrated copy was executed by Massimiliano Soldani-Benzi (1656-1740), who produced a bronze version for the Prince of Liechtenstein, however, the fame of the model was such that versions of it were in high demand from the late 17th century onwards. In England, John Cheere is known to have produced examples in lead in the 18th century (among them is one at Castle Hill, see Weaver, loc. cit.) although that model differs from the present one in that it lacks the tree stump which supports the left leg. With its finely finished details, this figure is an excellent example of English leadwork of the 18th century.