A near pair of palatial size gilt-bronze mounted Sèvres style cobalt blue ground lidded vases Paris, circa 1890

painted by and signed Bertien, one vase with cartouches decorated with figural outdoor scenes of 18th century companions to both sides within gilt highlight decoration, the other with a figural scene to the front and a lakeside to the reverse, one lid with the interlaced L and F and inscribed La Farandole in underglaze blue and Offert par le duc de Richelieu a Madame de Parabere in underglaze red, the other lid with interlaced L and letters F.B. in underglaze blue. 

Please note these are a matched pair. On both vases, the figural finials have been regilded later. One lid is not original to the vases. Both vases with scratches to shoulder consistent with movement of the necks. Some tarnishing to gilt-bronze and dirt overall. There are the usual traces of rubbing, wear and scratches to painted enamelled decor at junction between ceramic and bronze. Both bodies are a bit unsteady on their trumpeted bases. As visible in the catalogue illustration, each have a gilded scrolling border around the painted cartouche; one vase has a less elaborate gilded border around the lakeside view. Although no restoration is visible to the naked eye, it is possible that there are some trace of re-glazing in places.
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.