Workshop of Giovanni della Robbia (1469-1529/1530) Italian, Florence, 16th century

the baskets later

Overall, the condition of the glazed terracotta is good, with dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are various losses to some of the fruits, leaves and animals. Particular losses include: to the head of a lizard on the smaller group; the loss of a root on the middle sized group, as well as part of the head of a lizard; to various of the leaves around the bottom edges of the groups. There are losses to the glaze on all three groups. There are particular restorations to the glaze on the larger group, principally to the yellow fruits, and to the grapes and one of the cucumbers. There are particular firing cracks to the underside of the middle-sized group; these are stable. There are also some small drill holes to the underside of this group. There are restorations to the white glaze at the basket of the larger group. The baskets of the two smaller groups are probable replacements; there is wear and various minor losses to the edges.
"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."

These charming fruit baskets with playfully placed animals including snails, salamanders and frogs became a staple of the workshop of Giovanni della Robbia, son of Andrea della Robbia. Although perhaps not conceived as a collection, the present composition of the larger centrepiece with the smaller baskets make for an attractive ensemble.

RELATED LITERATURE
G. Gentilini, I della Robbia, Il dialogo tra le Arti nel Rinascimento, Milan, 2009, pp. 149; 124-129