A pair of Italian black and gold lacquered faux tortoiseshell mirrors, Venetian circa 1700

each with a shaped engraved plate one depicting Pantalone the other with Harlequin within a frame carved with scrolls and leaves with a lambrequin cresting, the base with a grotesque mask the mouth issuing three scrolled carved wooden candlearms, formerly fitted for electricity

Some minor retouching to the decoration and minor wear in places as visible from photograph. There are some minor hairline cracks e.g. at the top of the plate and some old minor restorations to the carving which has been strengthened at the back. The mercury has degraded in places as visible from photograph and the eyes on one grotesque mask in particular has lost their mirroring one on the top right, as visible in the catalogue photograph. A most unusual pair in overall good original condition.
"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."