A pair of Italian lacquered and parcel gilt carved mirrors, Venetian, mid 18th century

each with a rectangular plate, one cresting surmounted by a seated male figure in drapery playing a harp, the other with a seated shepherd with a staff, within a moulded frame the whole carved with flowers, leaves, coral, stylised scallopshells, rocaille and stippled reserves on scrolled feet

In overall good conserved condition. Attractive detail to carving and craquelure. Some very minor retouching, to lacquer and gilding. Both have been rebacked to both the frame and mirror plate . There are some old very minor restorations to the frame, which have been well executed. The mirror with the musician has two very minor areas on the left side of frame which are undecorated which can easily be touched up. Scattered age cracks and hairline construction cracks at the joints which are normal and can be left. There is some minor losses to the lacquer on the figures and a small part of the hand of the shepherd is missing as visible in the catalogue photograph which can easily be restored.
"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."

This very rare pair of mirrors is carved with richly sculptural figural elements in a very strong colour palette similar to those on a Venetian console table, sold lot 119, The Italian Furniture, From the Estate of the late Giuseppe Rossi, Vol. I, 10th March 1999 (£80,000), which was illustrated in W.M. Odom, A History of Italian Furniture, Vol. II, New York, ed. 1967, page 171, plate 201.