A pair of important Italian Rococo carved giltwood console tables Sicily or Naples, second quarter 18th century

Marble tops with scattered restored breaks, chips and restorations; now refinished on reverse. Tables with scattered age and construction cracks with largest construction cracks on reverse. Scattered restored breaks to carving. Scattered abrasions and small losses and chips to carving. Gesso with cracks, chips, losses and minor flaking. Some later gesso in restored areas. Regilt, gilding with rubbing and losses. Scattered old worm damage, most to reverse and feet. In good condition.
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 presence of aquatic creatures such as dolphins and shells suggests the influence of the most famous Genoese sculptor, Filippo Parodi (1630-1702), on this lot. Born in Genoa into a family of sculptors, Parodi developed his facility with wood, then transferred his mastery to marble in the 1670's after joining the studio of Bernini in Rome as an assistant (1655-1661), he returned to Genoa and worked with French sculptor Pierre Puget, whose work noticeably influenced Parodi's oeuvre. Parodi produced a number of pieces in wood that share similarities with these tables, echoing as well the overall influence of the Roman Baroque. Even though influenced by Parodi's work, the overall composition and design of these tables point to a more Southern origin, indicating that these consoles were most likely executed in Naples or Sicily, where Roman grandeur was often paired with Northern playfulness.