Northern Italian, 16th century

Carla Silvestri, Antichità Milano

The Burlington Magazine, September 1975, fig. 70

Overall, the condition of the wood is good, with some dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is some minor stable splitting to the wood, including to the faces, and to the proper left foot of the angel on the left. There is evidence of past worming in areas, notably to the backs of both angels at the shoulders, and to the face, lower body and proper left arm of the angel on the right. There are minor losses to two of the feet on the base of the angel on the left due to past worming. There are a few small holes to the shoulders of both angels at the back, some with small metal pins, which may be where wings would previously have been mounted. The candlesticks of both angels are very slightly loose, and a reattachment is visible on the candlestick of the angel on the left. There is wear to the polychromy, including some flaking and minor losses, including to the high points (notably the noses), and the edges and feet of the bases. There is also a small loss to the polychromy to the left angel's proper left shoulder at the back, where there is some wax(?) residue. The gilding has worn in places, revealing the red ground underneath. The polychromy of the hair of both angels may have been refreshed.
"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."