An Armorial Tapestry Panel, Italian late 18th century

woven with central coat of arms, enclosed within a golden sculptural cartouche upheld by a winged figure and winged cupid, with a cardinal's hat and ribbons above, all set against a shaped architectural niche, the lower section with books supporting a gilt-tray with a bruhl parfum and silver vessel, with golden scrolling foliage and pendant groups of gilt-bronze trophies held by blue ribbon supported by scallop shell supports, within yellow outer banded frame border

Colours in the catalogue photograph are too strong in contrast. Individual colours are slightly lighter in tone in reality and more attractive. Tapestry has thick lining. There is a very narrow sleeve for a rod across the top. There is no Velcro attached, which is recommended for future hanging. There are small areas of rewoven patches in the flowing red and blue robes in the lower right corner. There are stitches joining horizontal splits at colour changes, especially in the light areas of weave, for example to the lower centre grouping with the bruhl parfum, and to the group of motifs and wing of cherub, left of the cartouche. The metal-thread highlights to the central sculptural cartouche are tarnished, commensurate with age. Some small splits to the light band in the coat-of-arms, in the very centre, and some other horizontal splits along colour changes, which can easily be fixed. Decorative panel.
"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."