A set of four Italian lacquered and carved giltwood banquettes, Roman third quarter 18th Century

each decorated with polychrome flowers on a pale green ground, above scrolled arms, on five cabriole legs



 

In overall good conserved condition. Rare number and small size with most attractive painted decoration which is original. Reblocked. One has a block half way across the rear rail internally and another has a long block running the length of the rear-rail. Old very minor restorations to carving which have been well executed and are hardly noticeable. There are hairline construction cracks at the joints which can be left or easily filled and other scattered hairline cracks which are hardly noticeable commensurate with age and normal usage, which can either be filled or left. Joints sound and sturdy. The painted decoration and gilding is original with very minor retouching. There is some surface dirt which would benefit from a light clean according to taste.
"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."

Banquettes of this rare form without a back and with elaborately scrolled armrests typify the best Roman palatial seat furniture of the 18th century. This set is rare for its number and for the floral sprays, so typical in many respects of Venetian seat furniture of this period, as the Roman examples are normally painted in plain pale colours with carved giltwood details. The elegance of the design can be compared to two examples illustrated by G. Lizzani, Il Mobile Romano, Milan,1970, p. 96-97, plates 162 and 163. Also see Alvar González-Palacios, Fasto Romano, Catalogue of the Exhibition at Palazzo Sacchetti, Rome, 1991, p.165.

A set of four related Roman banquettes, although much more elaborately carved, was sold in these Rooms, 13th December 1996, lot 110.

See the banquettes photographed in situ in a Palazzo, circa 1900, reproduced here in fig. 1.