- 135
An Italian pietre dure inlaid table top, Florentine, first half 17th century
Description
- Giltwood, Pine/Poplar
- 49cm high, 97cm wide, 81cm deep. the top 78high, 93 deep; 1ft. 7¼in., 3ft. 2¼in., 2ft. 8in., 2ft. 6¾in., 3ft. 1in.
Provenance
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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
Catalogue Note
The present mosaic is certainly by the same designer, and probably hand, of one belonging to the Royal Castle of Rosenborg, in Copenhagen, here illustrated. The Rosenborg mosaic is recorded as being from Christian IV's Oratory in the Chapel of Frederiksborg Palace and it is fitted on a stand with Frederik III's monogram and motto, circa 1660. The same is illustrated by Giusti, Le Marquetrie des Pierres Dures, p. 84, plate 66 - reproduced here in fig. 1, where it has been dated to the first quarter of the 17th century.
The Rosenborg example and the present lot share an identical border using the distinctive fruiting vine garland, emanating from similarly ribbon-tied corners. This mosaic also presents similarly blue and white bellflowers, motifs that can also be seen in a top with a more complex composition made for the Earl of Yarnmouth (Sotheby’s London, 5th July 2006, lot 6). These two examples present birds finely inlaid with particularly vibrant stones, as in the accomplished birds of the current lot.