A SET OF FOUR ITALIAN SCAGLIOLA PANELS EARLY 18TH CENTURY |

each depicting birds perched on branches, in later ebonized frames

Sotheby’s London, 11 December 1987, lot 216;
Property of an East Coast Private Collection, Christie's New York, 7-8 February 2017, lot 329.

These panels have been professionally conserved and are in very good condition. Edges previously had chips and losses, which have now been professionally filled. Later ripple-moulded frames. No signs of previous breaks or cracks. Very minor old marks and scratches, as to be expected. Ready to be placed.
"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."

These four scagliola panels bear resemblance with the detailed designs of birds by the Italian Jacopo Ligozzi (1547–1627), a painter active from 1577 to 1627 in the court of Francesco I de’ Medici. Many of his naturalistic designs, today housed in the Uffizi and Pitti collections, were in the past a great source of inspiration for the Grand-ducal workshops, as well as Florentine craftsmen in general, throughout the 17th and 18th centuries.