An Italian neoclassical white Carrara marble torchère late 18th century

Signed F AB ezzi to bottom corner.

Overall fair weathered condition; marble stable; the bowl to the top with a large section to the scalloped rim lacking approx. 8 in. in length; large loss to the rim approx. 5 in. by 1 ½ in. and repaired break to the rim approx. 3 in. by ½ in. and small chip to one fluted scalloped tip; loss to one reed to underside of bowl approx. 1 ¾ in. in length; chips to bottom edge of the collar; loss to inner scroll of column approx 3 ½ in. in length; wear to edges; the pedestal with a large triangular chip to one corner of top; old chip to one corner leaf tip; small chip to another corner of the top; old repaired chip to another leaf tip; shallows, chips and wear to the central pedestal with a repaired shallow chip to one edge; loss to one scrolled acanthus leaf above a paw foot small to acanthus leaf above paw feet; chips and wear to the canted corners and edges of the plinth; overall with old stains, marks, scratches, chips and wear and with surface abrasions throughout; the surface not smooth but weathered and brittle.
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.

This candelabrum with tapering spiral shaft ornamented with oak leaves and a pair of doves is closely based on a famous Roman example found in Otricoli and now in the Vatican Museums. In the modern version the representations of one god on each side of the square base (only two preserved) have been replaced with foliage.

The design is published: Visconti, Oeuvres de Ennius Quirinus Visconti. Musée Pie-Clémentin, vol. V, Milan, 1820, pl. 5