Three Italian carved, silvered and gilt-varnished green painted 'Grotto' stands, attributed to Pauly et Cie Venetian, second half 19th century

comprising a pair of two-tier urn stands in the form of scallopshells supported by dolphins and a gilt decorated guéridon with a shell form top, supported by a coral carved stem entwined by a sea monster ending in tripod feet in the form of seahorses

Very atmospheric and an unusual group. The stands with losses to paint and exposed timber and gesso at these sites. There are cracks which fragmenting to the timber core. Reattached carved details. Repairs to legs and one of the legs is very loose and will require re-gluing. There are old repairs and chips to extremities and evidence of filler to areas. There is evidence of worm and Sotheby's would recommend that these wonderful stands undergo workshop attention to consolidate this. Much of the distress is typical - as a result of age, use, wear and type. The guéridon is in better order but like the stands there are losses to painted decoration and wear to extremities and there are also some chips to carved detail. The top with an old break to carved shell. There is ingrained dirt. It to would benefit from workshop attentions.
"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."