A fine pair of Italian scagliola table tops late 18th/early 19th century

each inlaid with a roundel depicting Pliny's Doves on a faux porphyry ground within a band of leaves within a black border

Colours slightly more faded than in photograph. Tops in modern ebonised bases on spherical and square tapering legs, one with a porphyry painted side which are not illustrated. Some minor chips and scratches to the scagliola commensurate with age. There are also water stains as visible from the catalogue photograph. On the one on p. 296, there is a large scratch on the right bottom corner, and to the other several small chips to a restored section of the bottom right corner. On the top left corner of the same top, there has been a break that has not been well-executed and would benefit from a more sympathetic restoration. The water stains which appear purple in the photograph are much more muted in reality. Restorations overall to both tops. In overall good restored condition, however, they would benefit from some touching up to the old restorations.
"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."