An unusual Italian ivory painted and parcel-gilt lacquered faux marble jardinière, Venetian third quarter 18th century

of shell-shaped and rocaille form, the central cartouche flanked by two further reserves, deep carved scroll and rocaille pilasters and further cartouche shaped reserves, on a plinth base decorating with florue swags, with a tôle liner

Formerly in the Collection of the Conte Franco Cella, Villa Rivara, Casa d'aste Michelangelo,16th-28th September, 1980, lot 100.

Also see lots 163 and 165. 

Colour slightly less orange overall and more natrual and attractive than in the photograph. Very minor areas of retouching but the decoration in the main is original with nice craquelure. There are however, hairline construction cracks and cracks generally, as visible from photograph, commensurate with age which can easily be filled or left according to taste. There is a medium sized area of painted decoration chipped off the base of the left and right sides as visible from photograph, which will need touching up. There are also some very minor chips to the carved decoration which are not too noticeable. Attractive detail to carving. The tôle liners have slightly undulating rims but this is hidden by the carving. An unusual piece in overall good original 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."