Pair of 18th Century Italian Carved Wood Polychrome Cherub Figures on Gilt Bases

$3,150

About

Add a touch of Old World Italian charm to a mantel, console, or buffet with this delightful pair of antique carved wooden figures. Crafted in Italy circa 1780, each whimsical sculpture depicts a chubby, cherub-like child standing on an elaborate giltwood pedestal, richly decorated with scrolling acanthus leaves, foliate motifs, and a gadrooned circular platform.

Each figure is beautifully hand carved with expressive facial features, rounded cheeks, finely detailed hair, and animated gestures. The charming children wear traditional costumes featuring red tunics with gilt trim, flowing blue skirts, and tall black boots. Their slightly different hand positions and playful expressions create a wonderful sense of movement and individuality while maintaining a harmonious appearance as a pair.

The ornate Baroque-style pedestals are embellished with deeply carved foliage, scrolling volutes, and traces of aged gilding, enhancing the sculptural presence of these decorative pieces. Both figures retain a richly weathered polychrome finish in muted shades of red, blue, cream, and gold, with natural patina and wear accumulated over more than two centuries.

The Italian sculptures are in very good antique condition commensurate with age and use, with expected surface wear, minor losses, and charming imperfections consistent with their age. Display them together as decorative accents, or consider converting them into an unusual pair of table lamps.

Dimensions: 10″W x 7″D x 21″H (each).

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