A pair of Italian pietre dure plaques, 18th century, Florence

Both with standard wear, inclusions, scratches and surface abrasions. Small abrasions to later frame. The panel with the costumed figures with possible restoration along the upper left hand edge, grey stone on outer border on upper right lacking. The other panel with chip to upper right and losses to two windows.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Exploiting the natural beauty of the colors, grains and inclusions found in polished hardstone is a practice dating from antiquity, and in 16th century Florence the technique of arranging tesellating segments into two dimensional pictures flourished under the patronage of the Medici.  In the 18th century images in hardstone were often designed by painters and followed the popular vedute genre of landscape painting.  In the present pair, which may have been panels or drawer fronts for a cabinet, sections are cleverly arranged so that the naturally occuring properties in the stone are made to represent aspects of the scene depicted such as hills, clouds, and rocks.

RELATED LITERATURE

W. Koeppe and A. Giusti, Art of the Royal Court, Treasures in Pietre Dure from the Palaces of Europe , New York, 2008