A pair of Italian patinated-and gilt-bronze wall lights, Bolognese or Roman second quarter 18th century

with four scrolled candlearms and stem cast with scallopshells, acanthus leaves and foliage terminating in gadrooned nozzles centred by a gadrooned tazza, the giltwood and faux bronze painted backplate in the form of a stylised scallopshell carved with lilies; formerly fitted for electricity

These are generally in good condition and are a most unusual model with beautiful detail to the casting. The carved back plates both have minor chips and losses to carving and gilding and some very minor old worm damage consistent with age. The decoration of the back plates has been refreshed and they have probably been re-gilded. One has a restored break to the carved foliage and the other has a very minor replaced section of foliate carving. The gilding on the arms is worn and both could benefit from cleaning according to taste. One central arm has a repair at the base adjacent to where it joins the back plate and has a strengthening bracket in place of a section of foliage. All arms are slightly loose. One scallopshell motif in the centre has been drilled and re-fixed.
"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:
Enrico Colle, Angela Griseri, Roberto Valeriani, Bronzi Decorativi in Italia, Milan, 2001, pp. 158-159.

The very fine casting on these magnificent bronze and gilt-bronze wall lights is reminiscent of a rood-screen illustrated by Colle, op. cit, pp. 158-159, no. 53, by Giovan Francesco Fontana and Francesco Tibaldi, after designs by Alfonso Torreggiani, circa 1749, in the Basilica di San Petronio, Cappella Aldrovandi, Bologna. The quality of the casting and treatment of the scallopshells and acanthus and contrast of the dark colour of the bronze and gilt-bronze is conceived in a similar vein. The presence of lilies is possibly significant, as they symbolise purity and the Virgin Mary and the scallopshell was a symbol often worn by pilgrims.