A large pair of Louis XVI style gilt bronze mounted cobalt blue ground Sèvres style porcelain lidded vases France, late 19th century

the lid surmounted by a pine cone finial, each side flanked with an acanthus cast leaf issuing the bust of a female nymph, both front cartouches depicting mythological scenes with Hercules, painted and signed LEBER, the back with ruin landscapes. Together with later Empire style wooden pedestals.

overall in good original condition, the gilt bronze mounts with visible tarnishing, dirt to crevices, the acanthus cast side mounts and female figure with visible pitting to gilding now showing through oxidation, the lids have never been broken and no restoration is visible to the porcelain body of the vases, each painted cartouche is framed by gilt highlights which now shows wear to its two tone burnishing gilding, on one vase around the face of the seated Hercules and the red marble column above him one can see light discoloration to the painting, all of those defects are consistent with age, however this pair of vases remains impressive in quality, please note that on one female bust figure her left arm is more bent that the three other figures and now her hand touches her nose
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.