South Italian, late 16th/ early 17th century

Overall, the condition of the figures is good, with wear and some dirt to the surface consistent with age. There are a few losses, including to one angel's proper left fingers and proper left big toe, and the proper right wing at the back, and the other angel's proper right wing and the tips of some of his toes. There is some evidence of past worming to both angels. There is minor stable splitting to the wood, consistent with the material, including to the backs and the terrasses, and to the chests of both Angels and two of their arms. There is an open but stable split to one of the terrasses, and there is a small hole. Both angels were carved in sections, and joints are visible in areas, it is possible that some sections have been reattached. There appear to be reattachments, with glue residue slightly visible, at both arms of both angels, to the proper left hands, and to the wings. There are several layers polychromy, and some of this and the gilding has probably been refreshed. There are losses to the polychromy and the gesso ground in some areas. The Angels are not carved in the round.
"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."

This imposing pair of angels, with swirling drapery, long faces and necks and curled locks of hair, compares to a smaller pair sold in these rooms as lot 60 on 7 July 2006. The complicated dress of these angels adhere to other Italian depictions of angels, with the splits at the upper thighs and various straps and buckles.