Antique Italian Florentine Gilt Wood Cherubs or Putti on Pedestal Bases, Baroque Style Pair

A charming and increasingly difficult to find sculptural pair of antique Italian Florentine giltwood cherubs, beautifully carved in the lively Baroque style and presented on classical pedestal bases. Attributed to early 19th century artisans, each putto sits with a graceful raised arm and expressive posture. Each putto sits with a graceful raised arm and expressive posture, the rounded form and softly carved curls giving the figures a wonderfully animated presence.

The figures are mirror poses, intentionally carved as a true pair, which creates a balanced sculptural presence that designers love for mantels, consoles, and cabinet displays. The original gilding has aged to a warm, mellow glow, with areas where the rich red bole underlayer softly shows through the gold leaf, producing the kind of authentic patina collectors treasure. Their surfaces reflect the traditional water-gilding techniques long practiced by Florentine artisans.

Likely originating from one of the renowned carving workshops of Florence, where generations of artisans produced finely carved and gilded decorative objects inspired by the great Baroque sculptors of Italy, including the dramatic gestures associated with the work of Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

Today, antique Florentine giltwood cherubs remain highly sought after for their warmth, sculptural charm, and ability to bring a touch of historic European elegance to an interior. Wear consistent with age including areas of gilt loss and beautiful patina. Sold as a pair.

Collector’s Note

Florence was internationally celebrated for its wood carving and gilding ateliers during the 18th and 19th centuries. Skilled artisans produced decorative sculptures inspired by earlier Baroque masterpieces, many of which were purchased by travelers and collectors. Antique Florentine giltwood cherubs such as these are increasingly sought after today for their authentic patina, sculptural character, and timeless decorative appeal.

• Measure 12"h x 4-1/4" x 4-7/8".