An Italian scagliola top late 18th/early 19thcCentury

of rectangular form centred by a laurel leaf enclosing a scene depicting a beggar playing a pipe before an aged seated female figure warming her hands by a brazier, a cat on her lap and at her feet, flanked on either side by ribbon-tied laurel leaf one enclosing a butterfly, the other an insect, each corner with a roundel depicting a beggar within berried in foliate borders, now on a modern Empire style, gilt-bronze and steel base, on leaf-cast tapering legs joined by cross stretchers, on castors; scagliola restored

The top has old marks, chips, scratches and water stains as visible from photograph and several old restored breaks. The detail is very good. There is tarnishing to the steel base as visible from the catalogue illustration. In overall good restored condition. Unusual subject matter.
"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."