Italian, Venice, late 16th / early 17th century

with coats of arms inscribed: M 

Overall, the condition of the candlesticks is good, with some dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is rubbing to the bronze, in particular to the high points. There are a few chips to the edges of both drip pans and to the bottom edges of both candlesticks. There is a loss to the bronze at the bottom edge of one of the candlesticks. The foot of this candlestick has been filled with gesso and covered with modern fabric; the gesso was probably applied for stabilisation. There is a lacuna or casting flaw to the stem of the other candlestick. There are minor chips and scratches to the surface throughout.
"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."

For the general form, compare a pair of candlesticks in the Thyssen-Bornemisza Collection, and the pedestal for an altar cross by Andrea di Alessandri, called Il Bresciano, illustrated in Avery, op. cit.

RELATED LITERATURE
A. Radcliffe, M. Baker and M. Maek-Gérard, The Thyssen-Bornemisza Collection: Renaissance and Later Sculpture, London 1992, pp. 238-239, no. 42; C. Avery, 'Andrea di Bartolomeo di Alessandri detto il Bresciano "lavorator di gettar cose di Bronzo": candelabri, satiri e battenti"', in M. Ceriana and V. Avery (eds.), L'industria artistica del bronzo del rinascimento a Venezia e nell'Italia settentrionale, Venice, 2008, pp. 233-252, fig. 2