A white marble and scagliola inlaid chimneypiece

in the manner of Pietro Bossi, the frieze inlaid with a central urn flanked by scrolling foliage and further urns and fluting, the jambs inlaid with a patera and fluting

Minor chips and some discolouration in places - lacking blocks at the base of each jamb. Good general condition and extremely decorative.
"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."

The present chimney piece is in the manner of Pietro Bossi. Bossi was an Italian craftsman specialising in marble inlay who worked in Dublin from 1785 to 1798. He was described as an `inlayer in marble and stucco worker' mastering his craft using coloured marble inlay together with a coloured paste inlay, known as scagliola, on a white marble ground. Bossi`s process was a closely guarded secret and was apparently carried out behind the closed doors of his Irish patrons. Bossi left Dublin in 1798 under a cloud of suspicion implicating him with the revolutionary movement.

For comparison see a chimney piece attributed to Pietro Bossi,  Sotheby`s London, Chesney`s Chimney pieces and Fire Furniture, 14th September 2010, lot 94.