Attributed to Giuseppe Sanmartino and workshop 1715 - 1793

Heim Gallery, London

Both with surface abrasions, losses, chipping and restorations throughout. Figure pictured at right: Restorations include right hand, left wrist, wings, and some parts of drapery. Loss to two fingers. Neck possibly restored (well done). Hairline cracks. Figure pictured at left: Restorations include: right arm, lower left arm, tops and joins of wings, ankles and bottoms of drapery and base. Otherwise some hairline cracks.
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.

RELATED LITERATURE

Catello 1988

The present figures, with windswept hair, heavily-lidded, partially closed eyes and open mouths revealing the tongue or teeth, are comparable to the work of Giuseppe Sanmartino who lived and worked in Naples. Sanmartino produced monumental sculptures for a variety of churches including a seated marble angel in the Chiesa di S. Antonio in Maddaloni (Catello, op. cit., figs. 57-58) and a standing marble angel for the Chiesa dei Girolamini in Naples (Catello, op. cit., fig. 133) both of which exhibit very similar facial types to the present figures. Perhaps the closest comparisons, however, are small painted terracotta angels from groups of Tobias and the Angel (Catello, op. cit., figs. 163 and 193). The stance is the same as are the hand movements, inclined heads and facial features.

Sanmartino was well known for his prolific production of small, painted figures, particularly crib or crêche figures, with hyper-realistic details. The drapery on the present figures (the right hand angel, in particular) with multiple folds wrapping around the bodies, accentuates the slight tortion of the figures.