the gilt bronze twin handles joined by ribbon-tied drapery, the body with opposing gilt bronze mounts of the Roman Goddess Flora, and on a bronze platform base with ribbon tied cornucopiae

A decorative pair in overall good conserved condition. Old, minor chips and losses to porphyry, namely where gilt-brass mounts have been attached. Urn 1 - Noticeable repaired break on swag to brass handle. Patch restoration to one side and small repaired breaks to body. Urn 2 - With two repaired thin cracks, the restored cracks do not detract from the urn. An impressive pair of urns.
"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 impressive urns, of such large scale, are a testimony to the enduring fashion for mounting rich hard-stones with gilt bronze mounts, a tradition that reached its peak in the 18th century but that continued through the 19th century and early 20th century. The elaborate mounts are clearly inspired by the Louis XVI style, with the leaf cast friezes to the body, pearling and chamfered platform base with paterae, but conceived on the eclectic and sumptuous taste typical of the turn of the 19th century.