Laurys Gillis (b. 1688) Flemish, Antwerp, 18th century

signed and dated L.Gillis 1743

This pair of putti are carved from two different types of carved limestone and are a matched pair. They exhibit wear from exposure to the elements. One putto has a repaired break to his upper right leg and another to his ankle. There is also a repair to the tree trunk. Overall they are quite stable with minor chips and losses consistent with age.
"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."

Laurys Gilles (or Gillis) was a Flemish sculptor active in Antwerp.  He was a student of Michel Van der Voort I, whose influence is evident in the present work.  Gilles became a master sculptor in the Antwerp Guild of St Luke 1721.  His marble Saint John survives in the Church of Saint Jacques, Antwerp.

RELATED LITERATURE
M. E. Tralbaut, De amors en putti, serafijnen an cherubijnen van Michiel van der Voort de Oude. (Antwerp and Utrecht, 1946); M. E. Tralbaut, La Sculpture au siècle de Rubens exh. cat. (Brussels, Musées Royaux 1977), pp. 219–42; Benezit, vol. 6, 119.