A set of four Italian carved giltwood, painted and silvered turtles 17th century

each lower section of the body carved inside in the form of a scallopshell, the inside of the shell painted with stylised foliage, with glass eyes; minor losses   

In overall good conserved condition. Colour of gilding more golden less greenish and much more attractive than in the catalogue photograph. Minor surface dirt and old minor marks, chips and scratches commensurate with age.On one, there is a crack in the shell and a minor triangular shaped loss missing from the back of the same shell which is not too noticeable. Some of the arms and legs on several of the tortoises are loose which can easily be secured. Some of the ebonising inside the tortoises has been restored. On one, the foot is loose and the head has been restored which is only really noticeable when tortoise is turned upside down. There is an approx 2cm section of gilt flaked off the shell of another on the top. On another the shell is missing an approx 15cm section from the rim of the rear of the shell. There is a restored horizontal crack across the shell of the same one and another smaller one. The underside of the body is painted which is a nice detail.
"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."