A pair of Italian rococo carved giltwood mirrors, Venice, third quarter 18th century

each with a shaped divided plate surmounted by a pierced cartouche-shaped cresting, with pierced sides inset with six further putti-engraved glass panels; the whole carved with rocaille, c-scrolls and foliage

An impressive pair in overall good condition, with minor marks and scratches consistent with age, small chips and losses to the carving. The gilding, refreshed, displaying some tarnishing, would benefit from a light clean according to taste. There are faint traces of old woodworm, which appears to be no longer active. One mirror with twig on cresting broken and repaired, and reinforcement to left scrolls. Both with some visible construction cracks. Both with probably original mirrored glass displaying overall foxing to silvering and minor, secure hairline cracks as per catalogue photograph.
"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."

Related literature:

M. Agnellini, Mobili Italiani del Settecento, Milan, 1990, pp. 153 and 167.

The singularly accomplished design for this impressive pair of mirrors relates them to one mounted with blue Murano glass sold Sotheby's London, Important Continental Furniture and Tapestries, 9 June 2004, lot 65 (£117,600). Similar unusual side panels are found on another mirror also sold in these Rooms, 29 May 1998, lot 123, whilst another example is illustrated in Agnellini, op. cit., p. 153. The architectural elements inserted in this rococo fantasy are also typically Venetian, and can be found for instance on a pair sold in these Rooms, Important Continental Furniture and Tapestries, 11 December 2002, lot 61.