Circle of Antonio Abondio (1538-1591) Northern European, probably Prague, 16th century

in gilt copper frames

Overall the condition of the wax portraits is excellent. There is some minor wear consistent with age. There are slight losses to the small stones and wire on the reliefs, particularly at the female's shoulder and hair.
"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."

Only aristocracy could afford wax portraits of the level of intricacy displayed in the present pair.  The exquisitely modelled ruffles and patterns of dress are complemented by masterfully incorporated seed pearls, gilt filigree and paste jewels. The art of modelling small wax portrait reliefs was mastered at the court of Rudolf II in late 16^th-century Prague. The talented Italian medallist Antonio Abondio the Younger, who Rudolf employed exclusively, produced portrait medals, plaquettes and wax reliefs representing the Northern European royalty of the day. Examples of Abondio's work were formerly in the Spitzer Collection and the British Rail Pension Fund collection (sold at Sotheby's on 4 July 1996, lot 57 and 58).

RELATED LITERATURE
E.J. Pyke, A biographical dictionary of wax modellers, Oxford, 1973, p. 3; M. Gaston le Breton, 'La Sculpture en Cire' in La collection Spitzer, Paris/ London, 1892, p. 189-190, nos. 3-4, Pl. 1; Prag um 1600. Kunst und Kultur am Hofe Rudolfs II, exh. cat. Kulturstifting Ruhr, Freren/ Emsland, 1988, p. 595, no. 493