A fine pair of Russian neoclassical ormolu and patinated bronze vases circa 1805

the vases of amphora-shape decorated with a bearded bacchic figure holding torches, on a square variegated marble plinth fitted with bearded masks.

One of the masks of the handles is ormolu and not patinated sugesting it was either replaced or cleaned. Traces of verdigris wich can be cleaned. Minor marks and rubbing to the ormolu mounts with some slight areas of tarnishing. Minor marks and chips to the base. The pair will clean up beautifully, in overall 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 bearded mask decorating the plinth of these vases is a device frequently employed by the St. Petersburg bronzesmith Johann Andreas Schreiber on chandeliers.  See, for example, the identical mask in a medallion decorating the central ring of a chandelier attributed to Schreiber, illustrated, I. Sychev, The Russian Chandeliers, 1760-1830, Moscow, 2003, p. 164, pls. 777, 778, 781, also p. 165, pl. 790.   The presence of this mask might, therefore, suggest a tentative attribution to Schreiber (1777-1843) who established his workshop in St. Petersburg in 1801.