A pair of gilt-bronze-mounted neoclassical marble, hardstone, jasper and semi-precious stone plaques, third quarter 18th century

each with ten rectangular plaques within gilt-bronze borders on a walnut ground, the gilt-bronze rectangular frame surmounted by a ribbon-tied roundel, with fixings to the base and sides

These plaques are in good condition; the gilt bronze, worn in areas, would benefit from a light clean. The rosewood veneers with age cracks and two small, filled-in losses. These rare, unusual plaques are extremely attractive. The ribbons both inscribed "FR SP".
"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."

Comparative Literature:
Artemis Group, Valadier, Three Generations of Roman Goldsmiths, An Exhibition of Drawings and Works of Art, 15th May to 12th June 1991, p. 86, plate 46, and p. 65, Fig. b3. In the aformentioned publication, there is illustrated a pen and ink drawing for a rectangular frame with a similar ribbon-tied cresting by Luigi Valadier, which were used to contain Pope Pius's cameo collections.

This pair of framed specimen marbles , hardstone and jaspers which have mounts, whilst less elaborate, are conceived in a similar spirit to some of Valadier's neo-classical mounts, see for example the ribbon-tied disc mount on a chimneypiece with mounts by Luigi Valadier, illustrated op. cit., p. 165, fig. b.3. 

Luigi Valadier (1726-1785) was a prominent member of the celebrated family of silversmiths, bronziers and architects active in Rome for over a century. His clients included the major Royal and Princely families of Europe, as well as the Pope, who greatly appreciated his designs after the antique, drawing on elements of Roman architecture. Foliate swags are almost a trademark of his, as is the juxtaposition of richly coloured hardstones and ormolu mounts. Objects produced in his workshop – always, until his death, of the highest quality – include inkstands, clock cases, vases and candelabra, together with chandeliers and table services.