Two sculptural busts decorated with shells, possibly a Sultan and Sultana, probably Italy, circa 18th century and later

each bust of carved wood, opulently decorated with multiple types of shells including cowries, coral, feathers, crystals and textiles, with two full marble painted columns

In good condition, both busts have both had some restoration and consolidation of its decoration, notably shells; traces of glue visible around some shells, the painted bases with some wear and losses of paint, the female bust with some crackeleaure to paint on bust, some dust and minor losses to extremities, the backs of the busts with losses of paint, the columns probably later addition, appeared to be painted wood in full marble, with some wear associated with use, as viewed. We would suggest to consult a professional restorer for further advice on conservation.
"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 pair, possibly representing a Sultan and Sultana, were most probably produced in the eighteenth century in the popular 'Turquerie' style of the period. Haydn Williams describes 'Turquerie' as "[...] a term used to describe a European vision of the Ottoman Turkish world" (H. Williams, Turquerie: An Eighteenth-Century European Fantasy, Thames and Hudson, 2014). This style exemplifies the fascination for the Ottoman world following the fall of the Byzantine Empire to Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror in 1453. This imitation of the Ottoman style in European art and culture spread from the arts, including paintings, drawings, ceramics and metalwork to architecture and fashion. 

Each of the present figures are richly adorned with corals and sea shells combined with Italian velvets, considered expensive and exotic materials. One of the most notable examples of this type of decoration is the Grotto Hall in Sanssouci, Friedrick the Great's palace. Opened in 1769, it features over twenty-four thousand shells and semi-precious stones.