A magnificent pair of carved and parcel gilt fruitwood blackamoors on pedestals Venice, second half 19th century, in the manner of Valentino Besarel

each blackamoor with mother of pearl and ebony inlaid eyes and ivory teeth, holding a scallop shell on a tassled cushion and raised on a pedestal decorated to the four corners with grotesque masks and foliate garlands. 

The stained fruitwood shows wear to the edges of the drapery. With the usual nicks, scratches and dents to timber consistent with age and use. Chips and scratches mostly around the edge of the base. The construction seams visible. There has been a break to the front part of one shell which has been restored now showing traces of filler. The crack is visible now with gold overpainting. One blackamoor with a chip to the gilded edges of his drapery of approximately 1 1/2 inches long.
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.

During the late 17th and early 18th centuries, European interest in new exotic lands permeated the fine and decorative arts and the present monumental blackamoor figures demonstrates the ongoing fascination with these themes.  Due to strong trading ties to the far east and Africa, Venice was perhaps the most famous producer of blackamoor figures but they were also made in other Italian cities including Florence and Rome. 

Valentino Besarel (1829-1902) was a venetian sculptor and furniture maker patronised by the Royal houses of Europe.