A pair of Italian bronze candlebearing putti, from the workshop of Nicolò Roccatagliata (active 1593-circa 1636), late 16th/early 17th century, Venice

red-gold lacquer beneath greenish black patina, upon stepped marble bases with later bronze plinths.

Parke-Bernet Galleries, New York, March 26, 1970, lot 193

M. H. Schwartz (ed.), European Sculpture from the Abbott Guggenheim Collection, New York, 2008, no. 56, pp. 116-117

Dents, surface abrasions, and wear throughout. Both attached to associated bases with fill beneath feet. Cornucopia-shaped candlecups (possibly associated) each with a horizontal seam, reattached to hands with glue. Candlecups with wax and corrosion. Both bases with chips, abrasions, and small losses. Putto with candlecup in proper right hand: Casting flaws, some with plugs or repairs, including lower right leg and foot, left ankle, right thigh, right center of back. Pit at center of chest. Putto with candlecup in proper left hand: Cracks at proper left knee and ankle. Casting flaws, some with fill, including to proper left leg especially below knee, between legs, to right elbow, and armpit.
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.

The animated curls, plump cheeks, and theatrical poses of this lively pair of putti are the unmistakable products of the Venetian workshop of Nicolò Roccatagliata.  A related pair of music-playing putti are in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna (see M. Leithe-Jasper, Renaissance Master Bronzes from the Collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna, 1986, nos. 47-48, pp. 185-187).