A fine pair of Italian green painted and parcel-gilt neo-classical console tables and mirrors, Neapolitan late 18th century

A most impressive pair of painted and gilded console tables and mirrors with beautiful carving and original decoration. Mirrors: The colour overall is slightly darker and more natural and attractive than in the catalogue photograph. Very nice detail to carving as visible from photograph. There are old minor marks, chips and scratches as visible from photograph commensurate with age and usage. The painting and gilding is original and there is some very nice silvering to the mask and ribbons above the mirror plate which is lacca a mecca. There are some scattered hairline construction cracks which can easily be filled or left and some scattered touching up to gilding and green paint. The carving is of very good quality and there would appear to be some minor losses to some of the foliage on the top border of the mirror plate, but this is hardly noticeable. There is a rectangular section above the mirror plate and a minor section of moulding missing on the base of the left side of one on page 194 as visible from photograph, which shows hairline construction cracks which can either be left or filled. Tables: Each has a veneered Siena marble top. Both tops have some minor pitting and old very minor marks and chips commensurate with age and usage. Beautiful detail to carving. The tables have been reblocked and there are some later battens supporting the marble tops. The pieces are slightly dirty and once cleaned will look absolutely stunning.
"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."

This pair of console tables and mirrors bear many of the characteristics of Neapolitan console tables and mirrors of the late 18th century. The pastel shades and the proliferation of the carving  including floral garlands typify the style of the area at this period.

Related examples of this type of console table and mirror can be seen in the Palace of Caserta in Naples. The mirrors in the Salone Primavera and carvings in some of the other rooms relate to the foliate carved decoration on the present lot. Further comparisons can also be drawn with a pair of console tables in Palazzo d`Avalos in Naples which have tapering fluted legs of similar profile.