A Rare Pair of carved marble roundel portraits of Turks, Italy, 17th century

each of circular form, carved in high relief with the head and shoulders of a turbaned figure in profile, within turned wooden frames with traces of gilding

In good overall condition, minor nicks and abrasions to carvings, one with edge with small slither missing visible from front, some small stains, frames lack gilding, as viewed.
"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."

These carved marble portraits imitate the coin medallions of the mid-sixteenth century such as that of the Bellini medal of Mehmet Fatih (see Türkische Kunst und Kultur aus osmanischer Zeit, Frankfurt, 1985, p.56, Abb.27). However, the profiles of the men depicted in the present roundels have less formal apparel as proved by the loose clothing around their necks and their less bulbous turbans. The figures in these roundels appear to bear a certain similarity to a Turkish horseman as depicted in a drawing attributed to the Italian artist Francesco Basilicata. The moustaches and turbans are close replicas to those in the drawing made in 1618 (see exhibition catalogue Venezia e l'Islam, 2007, p.25, cat.44).