An Italian carved wood "microscultura" relief, from the workshop of Giuseppe Maria Bonzanigo (1745-1820), first quarter 19th century, Turin

inscribed TEMPLVM VIRTVTIS, in glazed shadowbox wood frame.

Some losses and restorations/regluing throughout (some glue visible). Small losses include: some of the scrolling lines along the top and bottom, one pendant tassle in upper right corner, minor loss to some leaves, one animal's head on the lower border (to the right of the lion), one letter on the tablet below pediment. One horizontal crack to the background and minor bowing to the stepped platform below the figures. One hole below the head of the dog. Some wear and abrasions to outer box frame. Otherwise overall seems to be stable. Beautifully carved.
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.

The ornate Neoclassical microsculture by Giuseppe Maria Bonzanigo incorporate trophies, architectural elements, and rich ornamentation.  In addition to his commemorative portraits of royalty and notable persons, he also composed architectural caprices such as the present 'Temple of Virtue', impressive in their extraordinary detail and delightful in their amusing vignettes such as the animal heads in the border of this charming relief.  These were most often composed of blond wood over black backgrounds, sometimes incorporating variously-colored woods and ivory.

For additional biographical information and related literature see lot 492.