An Italian Neoclassical carved white marble fireplace surround with term figures after models by Antonio Canova circa 1825

With scattered minor chips and abrasions to carving. Some chips and small losses to edges and corners of top. Left rosette above term with loss to petals. Light surface dirt. In good condition.
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.

A very similar mantel is installed in the Blue Room of the White House (see Betty C. Monkman, The White House: Its Historic Furnishings and First Families, New York, Asheville Press, 2000.  Another pair of related Italian marble was ordered by President James Monroe in 1819 and originally installed in the State Dining Room.  These mantels are now located in the Green and Red rooms of the White House.

The design of the female bust forming the upper section of the supports of the present fireplace derives from the bust of Madame Récamier sculpted by Antonio Canova (1757-1822) after the plaster model executed in 1813 when Juliette Récamier was hostess to the Italian sculptor in a villa in Albano. E. Bassi, La Gipsoteca di Possagno, Venezia, 1957, illustrates the existing plaster bust on page 214, fig. 234.  The marble model, which was finally given as a present by Canova to Madame Récamier, is now in St. Peter's Palace in Lyon.  The engraving of the profile of this bust, by Henry Moses, is published in The Works of Antonio Canova,... with descriptions by the Countess Albrizzi and a Biographical Memoir by Count Cicognara, London, 1849, vol. III.

A similar fire surround has been sold in these rooms, American Paintings, Furniture, Folk Art & Silver – New York 27 and 28, September, lot 92.